A former state lawmaker, accused of sexual misconduct, has withdrawn from a possible seat on the South Dakota Parole Board.
In his withdrawal letter to Attorney General Mark Jackley, Gene Abdallah of Sioux Falls says continuing health issues prevent him from taking the position.
“It was my hope over these past few weeks that these health issues would improve but, unfortunately, they have worsened, and I am now using an oxygen machine for daily breathing assistance” Abadallah writes.
But Abadallah also denies any wrongdoing.
“My friends have encouraged me to fight back against these nasty attacks. If I were younger and in good health, nothing could keep me from the challenge.”
A former ACLU lobbyist accused Abdallah of sexual harassment during the 2012 state legislative session.
In place of Abdallah, Jackley is now recommending former Minnehaha County Commissioner Anne Hajek for the seat on the Board of Pardons and Parole.
(KELO)