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Port Richey mayor accused of shooting at deputies resigns, official says

Dale Massad's resignation comes shortly after he was suspended by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

PORT RICHEY, Fla. — The mayor of Port Richey has resigned, just hours after he was suspended by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and a day after he was arrested on attempted murder charges.

Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley tweeted Friday night that the City of Port Richey's general counsel notified his office that Dale Massad has stepped down.

Corley said a special election will be held to fill the post at a date to be determined.

The resignation comes on the heels of the suspension by DeSantis, which was announced Friday afternoon.

“Dale Glen Massad is clearly unfit to continue serving as Mayor for the City of Port Richey,” said DeSantis in his announcement. “It is in the best interest of the residents of the City of Port Richey and citizens of the state of Florida that Dale Glen Massad be immediately suspended from public office.”

Massad was arrested Thursday after allegedly firing at Pasco County deputies who entered his home to serve a search warrant.

Sheriff Chris Nocco claimed Massad was a "known drug user" and was a "drug dealer." 

Massad is being held without bail.

RELATED: No bail for Port Richey mayor after he allegedly shot at deputies

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