Peter Smith has stepped down as CEO of the Rural Office of Community Services about 18 months after they had to pay more than $300,000 to female employees who said he sexually harassed them.
The Wagner-based ROCS is one of the largest social services agencies in the state. It provides housing, food and transportation assistance to low-income residents in 22 southeastern South Dakota counties.
A U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission launched an investigation into the matter two years ago, where Smith was allowed to keep his job.
Smith said in an interview with South Dakota News Watch that he is leaving his position because he felt that his reputation had been damaged.
Smith said he does not plan to work in the social services field anymore.
ROCS transportation director Andrea Irwin has been appointed interim CEO.
