Derrick Evans, the West Virginia lawmaker who filmed himself storming the US Capitol on Wednesday has resigned.
In a one sentence letter to Gov. Jim Justice, Evans wrote: “I hereby resign as a member of the House of Delegates, effective immediately.”
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In a different statement released by the State House, Evans said, “I take full responsibility for my actions, and deeply regret any hurt, pain or embarrassment I may have caused my family, friends, constituents and fellow West Virginians. I hope this action I take today can remove any cloud of distraction from the state Legislature, so my colleagues can get to work in earnest building a brighter future for our state. And more importantly, I hope it helps to begin the healing process, so we can all move forward and come together as ‘One Nation, Under God.”
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Evans was facing calls to resign from both sides of the aisle since Wednesday when it became known that he was a member of the pro-Trump mob that ransacked the Capitol.
He was just sworn into office less than a month ago.
Evans claimed he was at Wednesday’s protests as “an independent member of the media to film history.” But his own videos depict him telling officers “bring the tear gas. We don’t care. We’re taking this country back whether you like it or not. Today’s a test run. We’re taking this country back.”
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He was charged on Friday with entering a restricted area without lawful authority and violent entry and disorderly conduct on Capitol Grounds.
Both charges are punishable with fines and potential jail time.
