Rep. Brian Ellis, R-11

Less than 24 hours after allegations surfaced that state Rep. Brian Ellis, R-11, sexually assaulted a woman in Harrisburg in 2015, his caucus' leadership called for his resignation.

Ellis of Butler Township has also been stripped of a committee chairmanship.

Just minutes ago, top Republicans in the House of Representatives issued the following statement:

“House Republican leaders are recommending Rep. Brian Ellis resign from office to take care of his family and address the allegations raised against him that are currently the subject of a criminal investigation by the Dauphin County District Attorney.

“The House Republican Caucus has zero tolerance for any instance of sexual violence or harassment.

“In furtherance of this policy, the speaker has suspended Rep. Ellis's chairmanship of the Consumer Affairs Committee pending the outcome of the criminal investigation by the Dauphin County District Attorney's Office. Furthermore, Rep. Ellis will not be assigned to any other committees.

“Given the allegations, we have also been in contact with Capitol Police and House Security, and under direction of House leadership, are instituting additional safety and security measures.

“The complainant deserves to have her allegations of criminal activity thoroughly investigated by police and prosecutors.

“As elected leaders, we are focused on the integrity of the institution, the safety of capitol staff and members, and the best paths forward for the individuals involved — the accuser and the accused as well as their respective families. It would be in the best interest of all involved if Rep. Ellis would resign.”