Roman LeBlanc, who had sex with girl he mentored, won’t seek reelection

Missouri state Rep. Roman LeBlanc announced today that he won’t be seeking reelection.

LeBlanc, a Democrat from Kansas City, admitted cheating on his pregnant wife with an 18-year-old

college student who he had mentored since she was 15.

The college student accused LeBlanc of sexually assaulting her (read

this week’s Pitch feature story, “Public

Disservice“), however Platte County prosecutors decided there was

not enough evidence to file charges against LeBlanc, who has maintained

his innocence.

He issued the following statement Friday afternoon:

“I have determined that seeking a second term as state representative for the 43rd District would not be in the best interest of my family or my community. Therefore, I am immediately ending my campaign and on Monday will formally file the necessary documents with the Secretary of State’s Office withdrawing my candidacy.”

“I am thankful to have been given the opportunity to serve in the Missouri House of Representatives.”