Missouri House lawmaker accused of child abuse resigns

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) – A Missouri lawmaker exiled from the House Republican caucus over accusations of sexually and physically abusing his children years ago is stepping down.

Rep. Rick Roeber submitted his letter of resignation Tuesday without citing the allegations against him.

Roeber’s adult children last year told House leaders that he sexually and physically abused them when they were young.

Republicans banned him from their caucus and called for an investigation.

His resignation came as the House Ethics Committee was meeting behind closed doors. Roeber says he’s moving out of state to be closer to family.

He cited that as the reason for his departure.