Baltimore Mayor Catherine E. Pugh resigned Thursday, one month after taking medical leave amid a growing scandal over sales of her children's book, The Baltimore Sun reported.
Pugh's attorney, Steven Silverman said Mayor Pugh submitted a letter of resignation dated Thursday and it is effective immediately at a press conference.
"Dear citizens of Baltimore I would like to thank you for allowing me to serve as the 50th mayor it has been an honor and privilege," Silverman read. "I am sorry for the harm that I have caused to the image of the city of Baltimore and the credibility of the office of the mayor."
"Baltimore deserves a mayor who can move our great city forward," the statement added.
Pugh, who has been suffering from health issues this month, was not present at the press conference with her attorney this morning.
The former Baltimore mayor came under intense scrutiny in recent weeks after it was revealed Pugh was under investigation for allegedly "self-dealing" to the sale of thousands of copies of a self-published children's book series she authored. The book sales went to businesses she had influence over, or sought to do business with the city. The books, "Healthy Holly," was about a young black girl who promoted the benefits of nutrition and exercise.
The Maryland state prosecutor along with the city's ethic's board have both launched investigations into the reported self-dealing.
Pugh has been on medical leave the last month in order to "recuperate" from a serious illness that stemmed from a bout with pneumonia. The mayor was hospitalized for five days in late March, the news paper reported.
Council President Bernard C. "Jack" Young has been running city government during the mayor's leave of absence.
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