CLAYTON, Mo. (AP) — An aide for St. Louis County Executive Steve Stenger has resigned after it was revealed he asked Stenger and the county police chief to write letters to a federal judge in support of his nephew, who pleaded guilty to a drug conspiracy charge.

John Saracino resigned Monday. His nephew, Michael Saracino II, was sentenced in December. He has not reported to prison yet.

Police Chief Jon Belmar and Stenger each wrote letters of support to the federal judge as she determined the prison sentence.

John Saracino says the letters, which were under federal seal, were accessible to the public.

The St. Louis County police board chairman has said that the board would consider whether Belmar violated department policy when he wrote the letter.