Pocono News Section

Eyewitness News Obtains Skrepenak's Resignation Letter

Eyewitness News Obtains Skrepenak's Resignation Letter - Thursday, December 17, 2009 at 4:04PM EST

Thursday, Dec 17, 2009 @ 04:04pm EST
STATEMENT OF LUZERNE COUNTY COMMISSIONER GREG SKREPENAK
ON HIS RESIGNATION EFFECTIVE THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2009

"I must resign at this time due to legal issues I must face.

I did not believe I did anything wrong until I met with the authorities. They demonstrated to me the mistakes I made and now I must hold myself accountable for those mistakes and accept the consequences, no matter how difficult it may be.

It would be very easy to blame others for what has transpired and to be very angry, however, I accept full responsibility for what has occurred.

I am still in shock, but understand that when you realize the error of your ways it is imperative you own up to them as quickly as possible.

I am deeply sorry for this turn of events. I am sorry to God, my family, my loyal supporters and the people of Luzerne County.

I have been truly humbled and know that while I do not like it, this is the path I must travel now. I have a deep faith and trust in God and know in my heart that somehow, someway this fits into his plan for me, no matter how much it hurts.

Even though it is one of my darkest hours, the season of Advent reminds us that there is always hope that better days are coming. I would hope that the good people of Luzerne County, my loyal supporters and my family would forgive me for my errors.

I also hope that while this mistake will cost me greatly and follow me for the rest of my life, it will be used as an example to current public office holders and those seeking public office, that there is a high standard by which you must conduct yourself. You must be able to differentiate between your personal and professional life. You must also follow strict guidelines that can't be confused with practices that might seem acceptable to others.

Due to the ongoing investigations and my complete cooperation with the authorities, I will not be able to comment further. For these reasons, I am not holding a press conference or conducting interviews.

I again want to stress my heartfelt sorrow for what has taken place. I can say without hesitation that I never intended to do wrong."