Eric Schneiderman, New York State Attorney General, has resigned from his position overnight amid allegations of violence against at least 4 women during his tenure. The alleged assaults took place between 2013 and 2016 against his romantic partners of the time.
The women involved, only two of which have been named, claim that Schneiderman had choked, hit or slapped them violently without their consent. The story was first reported by The New Yorker, which goes into detail about the alleged traumas that were endured, including both physical and emotional abuse.
Shortly after the announcement of his resignation was made, Manhattan District Attorney's office explained they had opened an investigation into the matter.
According to the New York Times, Schneiderman said in a statement: “It’s been my great honor and privilege to serve as attorney general for the people of the State of New York. In the last several hours, serious allegations, which I strongly contest, have been made against me.
“While these allegations are unrelated to my professional conduct or the operations of the office, they will effectively prevent me from leading the office’s work at this critical time. I therefore resign my office, effective at the close of business on May 8, 2018.”
CNN reported that New York Governor Andrew Cuomo called for Schneiderman's resignation, explaining: “No one is above the law, including New York's top legal officer. I will be asking an appropriate New York District Attorney to commence an immediate investigation and proceed as the facts merit.”
He added: “My personal opinion is that, given the damning pattern of facts and corroboration laid out in the article, I do not believe it is possible for Eric Schneiderman to continue to serve as Attorney General, and for the good of the office, he should resign.”
Schneiderman had a previously prominent role in the #MeToo movement, having brought legal action against Harvey Weinstein in his allegations of sexual assault. This has been under scrutiny by many in its hypocrisy after the report of his own assault against women came to light. He has also played a large part in being an open critic and opponent of Donald Trump.
Despite his resignation, Schneiderman asserts that the allegations are false, saying on Twitter: “I have not assaulted anyone. I have never engaged in non-consensual sex, which is a line I would not cross.”
