J. David James has resigned as Undergraduate Student Government Senate Vice President, USG Senate President Ron Marlow announced at last night's meeting.

"I think based upon the circumstances, it is the most prudent move that can be made," Marlow said. "It takes into account that he can't attend classes or perform the duties of his position."

James, a town senator who was elected as senate vice president in November, allegedly diverted more than $800 from the USG office to a personal bank account.

Last month the USG senate voted to suspend James from office until questions regarding his alleged burglary were answered.

Under suspension a senator retains his seat but does not have the privilege of speaking before the senate or voting.

Marlow said that if James did not resign, he could have been fully reinstated as senate vice president.

Marlow said he received a letter of resignation from James yesterday.

"Mr. James would like it to be clear his resignation is not a symbol of guilt or giving up," Marlow said. "He wants everyone to know he resigned due to how long the court process takes -- he won't be able to attend classes. Mr. James felt it was most prudent to resign."

Nominations and elections for a new senate vice president will probably take place next week, Marlow said.

Senators were relieved that James resigned because the vice president position was in limbo and they did not want to have to remove James.

"I'm glad it happened," West Halls Senator Kelly Glazier said. "I'd rather have a resignation then a motion to remove him."

Another senator said that James's resignation will allow the senate to go about business without having to worry about public opinions.

"I am relieved because now the senate can go about its business without worrying about public opinions as to whether it is alleged or he is guilty," said town Senator Abe Amoros. "I'm disappointed because we didn't get to see if he is guilty or not."

In other business, David Stormer, assistant vice president for the Department of University Safety, talked about the University's five-year parking plan.