DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and his wife have filed for divorce.
In a joint statment issued Friday, Duggan and his wife, Lori Maher called it a "painful decision," and asked for privacy.
Here is the complete statement:
"Life is a journey with many twists and turns. Today, a new chapter begins for the two of us. We have decided to divorce.
This painful decision has not been made lightly. On the contrary, we have had many serious discussions, have sought out guidance, but in the end, feel this is the best decision for both of us. We soon may not be a married couple, but we remain in close contact and we are first and foremost parents. We will forever protect and be present together in the lives of our children and grandchildren.
We do ask that you respect our privacy during this very difficult time. We will not comment further. We will continue to be supportive of each other, of our family and of the citizens of Detroit."
This comes months after a Detroit businessman, Robert Carmack, publicly accused the mayor of having an improper relationship with a woman who runs a charity in the city. Last November, Carmack released video shot by a private investigator he hired to follow the mayor, showing Duggan visiting the woman's home after hours.
After the footage was aired on two giant monitors outside City Hall, Duggan denied any wrongdoing, saying the video has been significantly doctored to tell an untrue tale.