Mayor Alex Garcia of Wasco resigned Thursday morning following revelations of an alleged meeting involving two men posing as a minor. Garcia, who has been recovering from a recent assault, announced his resignation with “a heavy heart and profound regret,” the Wasco Tribune reported.

He stated, “I want to assure you that the accusations made against me are mischaracterized and inaccurate and certainly do not reflect who I am or what I stand for.”

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Davonn Bradley, who, along with his friend Wess, posed as the minor, said: “He did the right thing by stepping down, as it was what the public demanded. The evidence is overwhelming: he went to meet with the 15-year-old boy and brought drugs. He has no business in public office.”

City Leadership Responds

Councilmember Vincent Martinez, who had called for Garcia’s resignation, urged community involvement, saying, “I encourage everyone to be more involved with their city government.”

Councilmember Gilberto Reyna expressed relief, stating that Garcia’s resignation would allow the community to heal. “The mayor’s resignation has removed the negative attention and divisions brought about by his actions,” Reyna said.

Mayor Pro Tem Valentin Medina emphasized the importance of restoring public trust, adding, “The community spoke loud and clear about what needed to happen.”

Councilmembers will appoint a new mayor at their upcoming meeting. City Manager Scott Hurlbert noted that specific rules must be followed in filling the vacant council seat.

Read more at the Wasco Tribune.