Peter Heed is under investigation for inappropriate behavior that allegedly took place at a state-sponsored conference on preventing sexual and domestic abuse.
Governor Craig Benson announced Heed's resignation at an afternoon press conference with his choice to replace Heed --Deputy AG Kelly Ayotte --by his side. Benson says Heed is leaving his post of his own accord, but added that he supports Heed's decision.
"I think both Attorney General Heed as well as I know that there is a way in which you have to conduct both your business and personal efforts in the state of NH to hold such an esteemed job in the state. So I don't disagree at all with the Attorney General's decision to step down."
The conduct that led to Heed's stepping down took place last month at the Mount Washington Hotel. The state supreme court had earlier suspended Dover District Court Judge Franklin Jones amid allegations that he groped multiple women while attending the same event. Deputy Attorney general Kelly Ayotte says the accusation against Peter Heed is being investigated by a county attorney's office.
"I would describe that there is an independent review being done with respect to an allegation involving the Attorney General. It's being done independently of the Attorney General's office for obvious reasons, and I am confident it will be finished quickly and I hope likely result in a positive result."
In his letter of resignation, Peter Heed described his stint as Attorney General as the most rewarding experience of his life……and attributed his stepping down to "personal and family considerations." The letter enumerates Heed's educational and professional background, mentions a long list of law enforcement accomplishments, but says nothing about any allegations or anything to do with the Mount Washington conference…….Heed has since said he did nothing wrong…..and that if he offended anyone it was unintentional. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were surprised by Heed's exit. Stoddard Democrat Dan Eaton says he's known Heed for several decades and has nothing but respect.
"He is the most diligent, competent legal entity I have ever dealt with in any circumstance, and I truly hope this come out to a good end. I would be shocked if it were anything but."
Fellow democrat Lou D'Allesandro, credited heed for working with the legislature and says he has a hard time believing the accusation could be valid.
"I'm shocked, amazed. I hate to see good people leaving state government. We need more good people in state government. I consider Peter Heed to be an outstanding public servant."
New Hampton house republican Fran Wendelboe agreed, but added that the timing of the claim against Heed might have hastened his exit.
"Some people do tend to get carried away and until we know all the facts it's difficult to surmise what happened. But I think it's even more sensitive because of the election time being so close."
Peter Heed's resignation will take effect June 28th.
