(CNN) Pennsylvania state Sen. Michael Folmer handed in his letter of resignation Wednesday amid allegations that police found child pornography on his phone, Senate leaders said.

"We are sickened and disturbed by the charges brought against Mike Folmer yesterday. We have reviewed the criminal complaint and spoke with Mike Folmer early this morning to insist on his resignation from the Senate," read a statement from Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati and Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman.

On Tuesday, Scarnati and Corman said they would immediately remove Folmer as chair of the state government committee.

Folmer's seat is now vacant. According to the state constitution , the Senate president must issue a writ for a special election to fill the seat.

CNN could not immediately reach Folmer for comment.

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