BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (AP) Bridgeport Democrats have endorsed a city councilman under investigation for residency issues as their candidate to fill a vacant state Senate seat.

The Connecticut Post reports the Democratic Town Committee on Thursday selected Councilman Richard DeJesus, who is being investigated by elections officials on accusations he did not live in his district as a Council candidate in 2013.

State Rep. Christina Ayala was arrested in September for allegedly voting and seeking public campaign money with a phony address. Bridgeport voters ousted her in November and her case is pending.

DeJesus won by one vote, defeating former Sen. Edwin Gomes.

The seat was vacated by Sen. Andres Ayala, who was appointed by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy as motor vehicles commissioner.

The special election for the Senate seat is set for Feb. 24.