The Metropolitan Police defended Fedorcio's right to resign, saying in a statement that he had the same right as any other employee to resign while subject to a disciplinary investigation.

CNN: UK police watchdog criticizes links with News of the World

"It is with great disappointment that I call on Representative Anthony Weiner to resign, " she said in a statement.

BBC: Anthony Weiner 'to seek help' after lewd photos scandal

Mr Khatib said in his statement that he had promised to resign if certain "red lines" were reached, but he did not specify what those red lines were.

BBC: Syrian opposition leader Ahmed Moaz al-Khatib resigns