AP Source: NY Senate Leader Quits Top Post After Arrest

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — A person familiar with the decision says Dean Skelos has resigned his position as New York Senate majority leader after his arrest on federal corruption charges.

He becomes the latest leader to lose his power in a state government marred by corruption.

The person says the Long Island Republican is stepping down as majority leader but will keep his legislative seat while he fights charges that he extorted payments for his son, Adam, from two businesses.

Both men say they are innocent.

The person wasn't authorized to discuss the matter and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity. The person says Sen. John Flanagan of Long Island has won a contest against Syracuse-area Sen. John DeFrancisco to replace Skelos.