Dogged By Sexual Abuse Claims, Assemblyman Bocanegra Quits Race

SAN FERNANDO, CA — San Fernando Valley Assemblyman Raul Bocanegra said he will not seek reelction Monday after being dogged by sexual harassment allegations over the last several weeks. His announcement came after the Los Angeles Times contacted his office seeking a response to allegations that he harassed six women.

Bocanegra, D-San Fernando, said he will step down from the Assembly post on Sept. 1, 2018, and he is "suspending my campaign and will not run for reelection."

"As you may know, news stories were reported a few weeks ago about a regrettable encounter when I was a legislative staffer in 2009," he said. "It was a moment that I truly regret, that I am very sorry for, and for which I have accepted responsibility for my actions. These news reports have since fueled persistent rumors and speculation, and I do not believe that this is in the best interest of my constituents to continue to serve next term."

The Los Angeles Times reported last month that Bocanegra was disciplined in 2009 after a female Capitol staffer accused him of "inappropriate and unwelcome physical contact" while he was a chief of staff. The paper reported Monday that it was preparing a story about six women accusing Bocanegra of sexual harassment, and the allegations had been presented to the assemblyman's office Friday afternoon.

"I have sought counsel from community members and constituents," Bocanegra said Monday. "After much discussion and reflection, the most prudent decision to avoid another costly special election in Los Angeles and ensure our community is not left without any representation in the state Assembly would be for me to resign at the end of the legislative session. I will spend this time focusing my energy on serving my constituents.

"This is a very difficult decision. But I know that it is the best decision for the Northeast Valley residents."

City News Service and Patch staffer Paige Austin contributed to this report. Photo: Assemblyman Raul Bocanegra, D-Pacoima, speaks at the Capitol, Thursday, May 4, 2017, in Sacramento, Calif. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)