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By Jane Ernsberger
Times-Junction News Editor
State Representative Matthew Barrett (D), who was elected to represent the 58th District in the Ohio House of Representatives, has resigned his position, effective Thursday, April 24, according to the office of Ohio House Democratic Leader Joyce Beatty (D-Columbus).
Phil Saken, communications director, said Beatty asked for Barrett’s resignation after he admitted he was not truthful about images he had on his computer during a school presentation. One of the photos showed a topless woman during the program that was supposed to tell students how a bill becomes a law.
According to Barrett’s office in Columbus, this was his first term in office. The Amherst attorney has a bachelor’s of science degree in aeronautical studies from Emry-Riddle Aeronautical University; his juris doctorate from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. He was member of the Civil and Commercial Law Committee as the ranking minority member, the insurance committee and the public utilities committee.
While in the House of Representatives, Barrett was the primary sponsor of one bill and the co-sponsor of 45 other bills.
“It happened in late September or early October,” Saken said. “That incident came to light almost immediately. This new revelation came on Wednesday. Barrett admitted he had not been truthful about the images. It was downloaded onto a flash drive. He (Barrett) intimated it was a family member.”
Beatty said she acted immediately to demand Barrett’s resignation after he admitted he was not telling the truth about the photos he displayed during the classroom presentation. “It became clear that Rep. Barrett had not been forthright with me and his colleagues,” she said.
According to the Ohio House of Representatives, no timeline has been set to find a replacement to fill the 58th House District seat. The office will remain open and staffed to serve the constituents of the district.
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