Colombia’s Director of National Police, Rodolfo Palomino resigned Wednesday morning in the wake of an ongoing investigation into an alleged male prostitution ring within police ranks.

“I have made the decision, in the heart of my home, along with the body of generals and with my face to the nation, to ask that I be released from my duties,” said Gen. Palomino in a press conference Wednesday morning.

“I will offer my request for resignation in the knowledge of my innocence before the charges made against me.”

Gen. Palomino was surrounded by his family and other members of the national police as he announced his decision.

“I cannot allow that the director of the police be under investigation, or have his honorability and transparency be put in doubt,” he said.

On Tuesday, Gen. Palomino became the subject of an official investigation by the national attorney general’s office for his supposed involvement in the creation of a prostitution ring, as well as alleged wire taps against journalists and improper enrichment.

Journalists published accounts late last year revealing the apparent existence of an organized prostitution network within the national police force. Dubbed the “Comunidad del Anillo” (Fellowship of the Ring), high-ranking officers and other public officials allegedly traded favors and money for sex with police cadets.

“I am certain that the attorney general will not find any elements to find me guilty, but I am ending 38 years of service to this country,” said Gen. Palomino. “I feel nothing other than gratitude and admiration.”

Government officials accepted his resignation shortly after the press conference, and a replacement director is expected to be named later on Wednesday.

The scandal has also claimed the job of Vice-Minister of the Interior and former senator Carlos Ferro, who resigned Tuesday after various media outlets published a video of Ferro discussing sexual preferences with national police Captain Anyelo Palacios. Neither man referred to the prostitution ring in the video.

President Santos also announced the creation of a special task force that will look into other allegations of corruption within the national police force.