Mingo Co. Commissioner resigns as part of plea agreement

A Mingo County Commissioner who pleaded guilty to federal extortion charges stepped down Monday from his post.

Commissioner David Baisden announced his resignation in a press release through the Mingo County Commission Office. It is effective immediately.

The resignation follows a guilty plea entered in Federal Court on October 2. During the hearing, Baisden admitted to using his position in an attempt to get tires for his personal vehicle at a discounted price.

“I’ve always had it in my heart to serve the people of this county in a manner they could be proud of,” Baisden said in a statement. “It was never my intention to do anything to put Mingo County in a negative light. I love this county, and I love the people. I continue to want to do what is best for them.”

According to the news release, Baisden has served as commissioner since January 1^st, 2007, and began his second term at the beginning of this year. He also served as the county’s purchasing agent.

Baisden is scheduled to be sentenced on January 14^th, 2014  and faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

“I’m sorry that I will be unable to serve the people of Mingo County for the remainder of the term to which they have elected me,” Baisden said. “I never wanted to let them down.”