Wisconsin Democrat faces call to resign amid complaint

MARINETTE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Assembly Democratic leaders are calling on a first-term state lawmaker to resign following a complaint that he sexually harassed a legislative employee.

Assembly Democrats leaders on Thursday called for the resignation of Rep. Staush Gruszynski, of Marinette.

They have stripped him of all committee assignments and say he will no longer caucus with Democrats.

Democrats say an investigation determined that Gruszynski "verbally sexually harassed a legislative employee while in an offsite location after work hours."

Democratic leaders say that's a violation of state Assembly policies.

Rep. Gruszynski released the following statement:

"In October I made a terrible mistake after drinking too much in a Madison bar. That evening, I made inappropriate comments to a female staffer and a sexual harassment claim was filed. I fully cooperated with Human Resources throughout this process. I want to apologize directly to that staffer and everyone that was involved that evening. My conduct was unprofessional and completely unacceptable. I need to be responsible for my actions and following that night I've taken steps with my family, and more importantly myself, to rebuild what I've broken. Shortly after this incident, I sought out counselling for myself and my family, and I am actively working on my continued sobriety. My concern and focus at this time is my family, and how in the New Year I continue to move forward serving the constituents of the 90th district."
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