Final Coda for the Mayor Who Wouldn’t Let Go

The former mayor of San Diego is sentenced in a very public trial that ended his career and embarrassed the city

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AP / Gregory Bull, file

San Diego Mayor Bob Filner speaks during a news conference at city hall, in San Diego in July

Former San Diego Mayor Bob Filner was sentenced to three years probation and 90 days of house arrest on Monday, bringing a close to the sexual harassment that cost him his job.

Filner, 71, pleaded guilty in October to three counts of sexual harassment, including felony violent false imprisonment and misdemeanor battery stemming from allegations of sexual misconduct made by several women during his time in office.

He had been under immense pressure from Democratic leaders and local officials to lead office amid the accusations of inappropriate physical contact with at least 20 women that he worked with, and finally resigned on Aug 30. Filner had only been in the mayor’s office for nine months but had served in Congress for 20 years.

“I want to apologize to my family who have stood by me through this ordeal, to my loyal staff and supporters, to the citizens of San Diego and, most sincerely, to the women who I have hurt and offended,” Filner said in court before being sentenced, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Filner will also have to seek mental health treatment, surrender part of his pension, and will be barred from ever seeking public office again.

[San Diego Union-Tribune]