Congressman Mel Reynolds should be ousted from office. After a month-long trial, Reynolds was convicted Tuesday of criminal sexual assault, sexual abuse, child pornography and obstruction of justice.

The case began when one of Reynolds’ former campaign workers, Beverly Heard, contacted police in June 1994. Reynolds broke an Illinois state law by having sex with Heard when she was underage. The state prohibits sex with 16-year-olds and prohibits adults in authoritative positions (congressmen included) from having sex with 17-year-olds.

In addition to sexual assault charges, Reynolds was accused of attempting to hide Heard from investigators by taking her to Tennessee. Despite the convictions, Reynolds still holds office in the House of Representatives.

While waiting for the judge to set a sentencing date, do we want a convicted sex offender serving as a federal legislator? It’s disturbing and ironic that a convicted criminal is helping make our nation’s laws. Congress can take action on the matter by voting Reynolds out of office.

Showing irresponsibility, as well as irregard for the law, Mel Reynolds does not deserve to hold a position of authority — least of all in the U.S. Congress.