Just in case you need the mental reminder [1]:
Elected officials must keep the highest ethical standards in order to maintain the public trust. From what I have seen of published news accounts containing emails and admissions, it appears that Delegate Hamilton has violated the public trust. Based on this public information it would be in the best interests of his constituents for him to step down, but if he believes that the due process of a full inquiry by the House Ethics Advisory Panel will clear his name, he should have a full opportunity to present his case. Any such inquiry should be commenced immediately and conducted expeditiously.
Phil Hamilton was also offered a plea agreement and declined, believing that he did nothing wrong and would take his case to the jury.
Hamilton lost that argument.