A new leader whom state officials hoped would bring stability to a child protection office in Columbus now under law enforcement scrutiny has resigned just months into his new job.

Jose Marrero, director of the Muscogee County office of the Division of Family and Children Services, is leaving a position he started in July. His last day will be Oct. 30.

Department of Human Services Commissioner Clyde Reese said he thanked Marrero for his commitment to children and families in the Columbus area.

Last month, police arrested office intake supervisor Phyllis Mitchell and former acting director Deborah Cobb. They have been accused of illegally destroying or manipulating child abuse reports.

Marrero has not been accused of wrongdoing. The investigation started years before he arrived at the agency.

Tags: Division of Family and Children Services, investigation, Muscogee County, Jose Marrero