Chris Christie ally John Inglesino tried to staunch the wound of an ongoing news story tonight about his receipt of a state pension for part-time work performed for state Sen. Joe Pennacchio (R-Montville) by asking Pennacchio to remove him from the state pension system.

"As a 15 year public official, I have devoted a substantial amount of time to public service.  Over the past few days, my friend, Chris Christie, has taken harsh and unfair criticism because I am legally in the State pension system as a part-time legislative aide to Senator Joe Pennacchio.  I share Chris's view that part-time employees should not be in the State's pension system," Inglesino said in a statement released tonight.  "My job with Senator Pennacchio has never been about remaining in the pension system.  To prove this, I have asked Senator Pennacchio to remove me from the pension system effective immediatley.  I will remain an aide to Senator Pennacchio, but I will not be in the pension system.  I hope this will serve as an example for others to follow."