SEATTLE (AP) — A man who claimed that Seattle Mayor Ed Murray sexually abused him in the 1980s when he was a teenager says the mayor's decision to drop his re-election bid is a step toward justice and truth.

That's according to the Delvonn Heckard's lawyer, Lincoln Beauregard.

Beauregard said in a statement Heckard called the entire situation unfortunate.

Murray on Tuesday ended his campaign second term, saying he was stepping down in the best interest of the city. He will serve out his term through the end of the year.

The former longtime state lawmaker told a packed room of supporters that the mayor's race must focus on important issues for the city and should not be dominated by a scandal.

Heckard filed a lawsuit last month claiming Murray paid him for sex. Three other men then came forward with similar allegations.

Murray also reiterated his vehement denial of the allegations.

The Associated Press does not typically name alleged victims of sex abuse but Heckard has said he wanted his identity made public.

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