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Former Gov Aide David Johnson To Begin Life Of Service Following Guilty Plea

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- David Johnson, the former aide to Governor David Paterson who lost his job after being accused in a domestic violence case, held a news conference Monday with elected officials to announce a non-profit organization aimed at helping youth with responsible decision-making.

In 2011, Johnson pleaded guilty to second-degree harassment, admitting that he shoved his girlfriend during a heated fight.

1010 WINS Reporter Glenn Schuck reports.

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"I got into an argument ... it got loud. We were both upset and I shoved her with the intent to harass or alarm her," Johnson told a judge in a Bronx criminal court. "I realize my conduct was inappropriate and I deeply regret my actions."

Johnson had been Governor Paterson's right-hand man, but his guilty plea led to his downfall from government.

Johnson said that he pleaded guilty to pushing another individual, something that he claimed he had no right to do. He plans to make amends for his crime by speaking to young people about domestic violence.

"My mission in going forward is to be a pristine member of public service, to give back all of the knowledge and everything that I have," he said.

If Johnson stays out of trouble through March, the violation will be removed from his record.

What do you think of Johnson's attempt to right his wrongs? Let us know in the comments section below...

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