The attorney for state Rep. Kevin Boyle (D-172nd dist.) predicted a positive resolution to the charges he is facing following last Friday afternoon’s arrest.
Boyle was arrested by 7th Police District officers outside the Bustleton home he had shared with his wife of 10 years and two young daughters. He’s been charged with harassment and violation of a protection from abuse order, according to police and court records.
“It is important to note that no one is accusing Kevin Boyle of any act of violence. We are confident that this single misdemeanor charge, and one summary citation, will be resolved without a conviction once Kevin completes all medical recommendations, including treatment. We are confident that with treatment, Kevin will return to full health and continue serving his constituents, who he has worked hard to ably represent for the last 11 years, and who have overwhelmingly re-elected him numerous times,” his lawyer, R. Emmett Madden, said in a statement.
Boyle, 41, elected in 2010, was released on his own recognizance, according to the police public affairs office. He faces an Oct. 27 status hearing at the Criminal Justice Center.
Gov. Tom Wolf has called on his fellow Democrat to resign.
The leadership of the Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus released the following statement: “The news of Rep. Boyle’s arrest is more than troubling. The allegations against him, if true, mean he should no longer hold public office. It is clear Rep. Boyle should resign from office now to focus on his personal health and the future well-being of those around him.”
The following statement is from the House Democratic leadership team:
“We are saddened to learn of Rep. Kevin Boyle’s arrest and concerned for everyone involved in this situation. We understand that Rep. Boyle has been dealing with ongoing mental health challenges and we’re thankful to learn that he’s agreed to undergo evaluation and treatment. Sadly, too many families deal with these challenges shrouded by stigma or shame. Our thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with Rep. Boyle’s wife and two young children.
“We will ensure that the residents of the 172nd Legislative District see no disruption to constituent services during this time. Our focus will remain on ensuring Rep. Boyle can get the necessary help he needs, and we give our full support to his wife during this difficult time.”
Before the arrest, Boyle had been replaced as minority-party chairman of the Finance Committee by Rep. Patty Kim. The House Democrats’ spokesman did not reply to a question about why Boyle was removed.
Republican Aaron Bashir is planning a rematch next year against Boyle, but redistricting could disrupt that matchup. The Times asked Madden if Boyle would run again in 2022, but he did not say. ••
