by tech2.org

The presentation of Mary Loretto Maher on Friday at the Wayne County Circuit Court occurs almost six months after the couple defended their marriage in response to the mayor’s challenge made publicly by his ties to a local doctor.

In a joint statement, Duggan, 60, and Maher, 62, wrote “this painful decision was not taken lightly” and asked the public to respect their privacy.

“Life is a journey with many twists and turns,” the statement said. “Today, a new chapter begins for the two of us, we have decided to divorce.”

The mayor’s and city’s relationships with a non-profit organization are at the center of an independent investigation into a possible abuse of authority over whether preferential treatment was granted to Make Your Date, which is dedicated to preventing premature births .

Duggan’s relationship with Dr. Sonia Hassan, who directs the program, has been publicly questioned in recent months.

When the mayor was asked, he repeatedly refused to discuss it and said “I will never talk about my personal life”.

In Friday’s statement, Duggan and Maher said that “they have had many serious discussions, they have sought guidance, but in the end, they feel that this is the best decision for both of them.”

“We may soon not be a married couple, but we keep in close contact and, above all, we are parents,” they said. “We will always protect ourselves and be present in the lives of our children and grandchildren.”

The couple concluded by saying “we will not comment” beyond the statement.

“We will continue to support each other, our family and the citizens of Detroit,” the statement said.

A divorce settlement conference for Duggan and Maher is scheduled for August 2.

Alexis Wiley, Duggan’s chief of staff, said Duggan will continue to live at the Manoogian Mansion, the official residence of the mayor’s office in the city.   to read more of this story, click here