UPDATE: Lt. Gov. Benjamin Resigns

UPDATE: Governor Kathy Hochul has announced she has accepted Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin's resignation.

IN a statement, she says, "I have accepted Brian Benjamin's resignation effective immediately. While the legal process plays out, it is clear to both of us that he cannot continue to serve as Lieutenant Governor. New Yorkers deserve absolute confidence in their government, and I will continue working every day to deliver for them."

Original Story:

Lieutenant Governor Brian Benjamin is facing bribery and wire fraud charges in connection to a past campaign.

As first reported by The New York Times, Benjamin is accused in the indictment of directing state funds to a real estate investor who then orchestrated illegal donations to the campaign.

U.S. Attorney Damien Williams says the crimes Benjamin committed are pretty clear.

Benjamin was appointed Lieutenant Governor last August and is the Democratic party's designated candidate for a full term in the June primary.