RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Top Virginia Republicans are calling for the resignation of a GOP lawmaker who has been charged with assaulting members of his family.
House Speaker William Howell and other House leaders said in a statement Saturday that they are "deeply concerned" by the charges against Del. Rick Morris. They're asking Morris to immediately resign his seat.
Officials said Morris was arrested Tuesday on two counts of assault and battery of a family member and cruelty and injuries to children. Morris has been released on bond. He didn't immediately respond to an email and phone message on Sunday.
Police say Morris assaulted a boy at home on Sept. 16, causing "injuries consistent with excessive physical discipline." Police say Morris assaulted another family member, a woman, last Dec. 23 as an argument escalated.
