The filmmaker was taken into custody in New York last month (Jul15) and charged with counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child and possessing an obscene sexual performance by a child for allegedly sharing on the Internet.

As a result of his legal troubles, Alexander has decided to step down from his DGA role, weeks after he was elected as second vice president in June (15). Officials will choose Alexander's replacement at a board meeting this autumn (15).

Alexander is scheduled to appear in court on 19 November (15), and, if convicted, he faces a maximum of seven years behind bars.