Sheriff Richard Turcotte of Rolette County, N.D., has resigned.
Gov. John Hoeven removed him from office earlier this week, pending a hearing on allegations that include misconduct, malfeasance and neglect of duty in office or gross incompetence.
Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem announced Turcotte's resignation Friday.
The Rolette County Commission has appointed Commissioner Bob Leonard as interim sheriff.
Turcotte "made the right decision in the interests of Rolette County," Stenehjem said. "His resignation eliminates the need for a hearing on the complaint for removal."
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A complaint filed by Stenehjem said Turcotte failed to keep proper records and employed deputies who were not property licensed. He said the ex-sheriff also failed to follow state law in operating the county jail, which was forced to close because of a lack of trained staff.
A woman who answered the phone at Turcotte's home Friday night said he declined to comment.
