Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh has resigned, more than a month after taking a leave of absence for health reasons and amid scrutiny over her children's books.

The announcement was made at the offices of the mayor's attorney, Steve Silverman. Silverman read a statement from Pugh as follows:

Dear citizens of Baltimore,

I would like to thank you for allowing me to serve as the 50th mayor. It has been an honor and a privilege.

Today, I am submitting my written resignation to the Baltimore City Council. I am sorry for the harm that I have caused to the image of the city of Baltimore and the credibility of the Office of the Mayor.

Baltimore deserves a mayor who can move our great city forward. I want to thank all of our department heads and staff who work hard every day to improve the quality of life for all who live, work and visit our city.

I also want to thank Jack Young, the president of the City Council, for his steadfast leadership in my absence. I wish you well in your new role as mayor of Baltimore City

Sincerely,

Catherine E. Pugh

