Rep. Kevin Boyle, Who Represents Rockledge In State House, Charged With PFA Violation

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, PA — Democratic State Rep. Kevin Boyle was arrested last week and charged with harassment and violating a protective order, according to news reports and court records.

Boyle, who represents the 172nd Legislative District, which includes Northeast Philadelphia and Rockledge Borough in Montgomery County, was arrested in Philadelphia on Friday and charged with harassment and violating a protection from abuse order that had been taken out against him by his wife, according to a report in the Philadelphia Inquirer.

A criminal docket sheet in the case from Magisterial District Court shows that a hearing had originally been scheduled for this week but now appears to be scheduled for late October.

The charges laid out on the docket sheet are Contempt for Violation of Order or Agreement and Harassment - Subject Other to Physical Contact.

The Inquirer reported that the PFA was taken out by Boyle's wife, although additional specifics were not provided.

In a statement provided to the Inquirer, R. Emmett Madden, Boyle's defense attorney, said that, “While any alleged violation of a PFA is a concerning matter, it is important to note the fact Kevin Boyle is not accused of any act of violence.”

Meanwhile, the leadership of the Pennsylvania House Republican Caucus released a statement addressing Boyle's arrest.

“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," the statement reads. “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 statement was signed by Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff of the 171st Legislative District.

According to news reports, prior to his arrest Boyle had been removed from his position as House Finance Committee chairman and he had his access to the capitol building limited.

Rockledge Borough, which is part of Boyle's House district, is a small municipality that borders Abington Township in Montgomery County.