Cambridge Metropolis Councilor Paul Toner mentioned he is not going to search reelection after being charged with allegedly shopping for intercourse in reference to a Boston-area brothel ring bust.
“As candidates have begun pulling nomination papers for the coming City Council election, I am writing to inform you that I have made the decision not to seek re-election,” Toner mentioned in a Fb put up Monday. “I believe I would be successful in a run for re-election, and I am deeply grateful to the many friends and supporters who have reached out over the past few months to offer me their continued support and have encouraged me to run for another term.”
Toner is certainly one of 28 males charged within the spring with shopping for intercourse from a large-scale Boston-area brothel ring busted final 12 months, and the one public official named within the case thus far. Three leaders of the ring have pleaded responsible to associated crimes, together with intercourse trafficking.
Regardless of calls to resign following the fees, Toner has remained in his place on the Cambridge Metropolis Council, saying at a March council assembly he has the “right to due process.”
As of Monday although, the councilor mentioned he has “decided to complete my current term and take a step back from elective office to explore other opportunities.” Toner didn’t point out his pending fees within the Fb announcement Monday.
Toner, the previous president of the Massachusetts Lecturers Affiliation, mentioned he intends to proceed to be “active in Cambridge civic life as a private citizen.”
Toner was first elected to the place in November 2021 and is in his second time period on the council.
“Thank you all for your grace, friendship and support over the years,” Toner wrote. “During my final six months in office please let me know how I can best serve you on the council.”
