A MAYOR has made national headlines after being arrested on 56 counts of child pornography.
Patrick Wojahn was taken into custody over disturbing images.
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Who is Patrick Wojahn?
Patrick Wojahn served as the mayor of College Park, Maryland, for seven years.
Prior to being elected, he served on College Park city council as a Democrat.
Patrick was the first openly gay man to become mayor of College Park.
He wrote on his LinkedIn page that he advocated for active transportation and for individuals with disabilities, and HIV and Aids.
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He said: "My goal is to advocate for stronger policy around connected active transportation and smart growth."
Has Patrick Wojahn resigned?
Patrick announced his resignation from mayor on March 1, 2023, hours before being arrested on a slew of charges brought against him by local authorities.
The statement read: “Mayor Wojahn has served in this position since 2015 and on Council since 2007. The City of College Park thanks Mayor Wojahn for his many years of dedicated service.”
In another statement from the city officials said they were “shocked and disturbed” by the allegations.
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Patrick was taken into custody after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children notified Maryland Police that a social media account in their jurisdiction was distributing "inappropriate content involving a child".
The disturbing images and videos were allegedly uploaded in January 2023, and Prince George's County Police discovered the account was Patrick's.
After searching his tablet and mobile phone and other electronics, they discovered the materials.
Patrick has been "cooperating" with police, and reportedly waved his Miranda rights and confessed to authorities that he was the one who owned the account.
What has been said about Patrick Wojahn?
The community of College Park has expressed shock and disappointment after the news surrounding Patrick emerged.
City officials released a statement reading: "What has come to light in this investigation is a total surprise to us.
"We encourage our residents to seek any help they feel necessary."
Users on Twitter were less careful with their words.
One account said: "He was always off a tick. Does not surprise me sadly."
