CAMILLUS N.Y. -- The former West Genesee school board member accused of trying to have sexual contact with a child appeared in Town of Aurelius court. 

James Soper, 45, pleaded not guilty Wednesday night to attempted criminal sexual act and attempted disseminating indecent material.  Court documents say Soper sent explicit images to someone he believed to be a 12-year-old girl and persistently asked her to engage in sexual conduct.

Soper resigned from his position as a board member Tuesday. His attorney talked about the case.

"Outside of this allegation, he has led an exemplary life, in his community, within his family,” said defense attorney Michael Vavonese," and has had no problems whatsoever, with anyone."

Soper is scheduled to appear back in court on January 31. Meanwhile, West Genesee's school board held a public meeting where they unanimously accepted Soper's resignation.

After hearing the allegations, he was asked to resign immediately by West Genesee Superintendent Chris Brown.

Brown says the district will not tolerate abuse and had to immediately take action. During the next two weeks, the board will decide how it will replace Soper.