BATESVILLE, Ind. (AP) — A southeastern Indiana mayor charged with patronizing a prostitute has resigned.

Batesville Mayor Rick Fledderman tendered his resignation Wednesday, saying he hopes the city can move on with new leadership.

WTHR-TV reports Fledderman issued a statement in which he expressed sorrow for his actions and for the hurt he has caused his family and the community 60 miles southeast of Indianapolis.

The resignation came a day after City Council members said they were considering legal options if Fledderman didn’t step down. He was arrested earlier this month.

City Council member Gene Lambert’s appointment as acting mayor is due to expire Thursday unless it is extended by a judge. The city is considering asking that the interim appointment continue until a Batesville Democratic caucus to select a new mayor.

Information from: WTHR-TV, http://www.wthr.com/