Councilman accused of domestic violence resigns

A Grand Junction city councilman accused of domestic violence soon after his election has resigned.

The city announced Monday that Rick Brainard submitted his resignation last week. It took effect immediately.

Brainard was arrested in April for allegedly slapping his girlfriend and pushing her into a dresser several times.

In his resignation letter, Brainard said he is not a violent person and was ashamed that he “let circumstances get away” from him. Since his arrest, he said he has gotten help from professionals and reconnected with his girlfriend, whom he called his biggest supporter. He also said he was disillusioned with the council.

The Daily Sentinel reports that Brainard’s resignation came as a group was preparing to mount a recall campaign.

The council will meet Tuesday to discuss naming a replacement.