FILE - In this Jan. 15, 2008 file photo, District of Columbia city council member Harry Thomas Jr., left, speaks in Washington. Authorities say Thomas has been charged with stealing more than $350,000 in government funds and filing false tax returns. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)

WASHINGTON (AP) — D.C. Councilmember Harry Thomas Jr. says he's resigning his post ahead of pleading guilty to stealing more than $350,000 in government funds and filing false tax returns.

Thomas said in an e-mailed statement Thursday night that his resignation was effective immediately and that he would plead guilty Friday morning to two federal crimes.

The 51-year-old Thomas, a Democrat, was charged Thursday in a criminal information following plea discussions between his attorneys and federal prosecutors. A plea hearing has been scheduled for Friday morning.