Conn. Lawmaker Quits Over Alleged Threat (AP)

Conn. Lawmaker Quits Over Alleged Threat

By SUSAN HAIGH
The Associated Press
Tuesday, November 13, 2007; 2:07 PM

HARTFORD, Conn. -- A state senator who already had
given up a leadership post said Tuesday he is giving
up his seat rather than face possible expulsion for
asking a man with alleged mob ties to threaten his
granddaughter's husband.

"I believe in my heart that my actions were designed
to protect my family," state Sen. Louis DeLuca said
at a news conference with family members by his side.

DeLuca, 74, stepped down as Senate minority leader
in June after pleading guilty to a misdemeanor
threatening charge. He received a six-month suspended
sentence, was fined $2,000 and was ordered to $1,500
to charity as part of the plea deal.

DeLuca said his resignation from the Legislature
would take effect on Nov. 30.

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