UC regent resigns amid criticism over offensive remark

A University of California regent who was caught on tape last year asking an employee if he could hold her breasts has decided to resign amid growing calls that he step down.

In a resignation letter to Regents Chair George Keiffer, first reported by the San Francisco Chronicle, Norman Pattiz said that after 16 years on the board he would retire in February.

Pattiz did not mention the sexual harassment accusation in his letter.

UC officials did not immediately return calls Thursday seeking comment.

The controversy over Pattiz came to light in October 2016, when actress Heather McDonald posted the recording of his comment on her “Juicy Scoop” podcast.

Pattiz is chairman of the Courtside Entertainment Group, which produces radio shows and podcasts.