Mass. Highway Safety Director Announces Dec. 31 Resignation

BOSTON (CBS) - The director of Massachusetts Highway Safety Division, Sheila Burgess has announced plans to resign.

Burgess submitted a resignation letter to Public Safety Secretary Mary Beth Heffernan announcing her resignation effective December 31, 2012.

On Sunday, it was reported that Burgess has had numerous accidents and license suspensions. She's even been cited twice for failing to stop for a police officer.

Sec. Heffernan immediately accepted the resignation.

"She should not have been hired for the position and while she has been a solid and dependable employee, she recognized, and I agree, that she could not expect the public's trust if she were to continue in the position," Heffernan said in a statement. "We wish Ms. Burgess a full recovery and will now turn our attention to moving the Highway Safety Division forward."

Governor Patrick also issued a statement on Burgess' resignation saying the goal is to staff state jobs with committed, qualified and dedicated professionals.

"We don't always get it right. And when we don't, we fix it. While Ms. Burgess has had success in securing millions of dollars in federal funding for Massachusetts and her office has received positive reviews from federal agencies, given her driving background, it was a mistake to hire her for this position, the statement said. "Her resignation will allow her to focus on her health and allow the department to move forward with its mission."

Burgess cited health as the reason for her decision to resign.