Episcopal Bishop Accused In Drunken-Driving Death Resigns

BALTIMORE (AP) -- The Episcopal Diocese of Maryland says a bishop accused of fatally striking a bicyclist while driving drunk in Baltimore has resigned.

The diocese announced Friday that it has accepted the resignation of Heather Cook, who was bishop suffragan. Cook is no longer employed by the church. Cook was the second-highest ranking Episcopal leader in Maryland.

Cook faces charges of vehicular manslaughter, drunken driving and distracted driving stemming from a Dec. 27 accident. Prosecutors say Cook was drunk and texting when she fatally struck 41-year-old Tom Palermo on his bicycle. Cook is free on a $2.5 million bail.

A June 4 trial date has been set in the case.

The diocese says Cook's resignation is separate from any disciplinary action taken by the church.