Resident Issues Statement on Possible Litigation Against Douglass Township

During Monday's meeting of the Douglass Township Board of Supervisors, a lengthy discussion occurred about a resident and constable, Joshua Stouch, and on-the-record accusations that were made against him during previous meeting by Chairman Fred Theil.

In response to those accusations, Stouch filed a letter stating that he is reserving his right to file litigation against Douglass Township

On Monday, Theil was removed as Chairman of the Board.

When contacted for comment regarding the nature of the accusations, as well as whether he plans to follow through with litigation against the township, Stouch stated that his lawyer had advised him not to speak about the issue.

A short time later, Stouch released an official statement to the Pottstown Patch regarding the situation.

The statement reads:

Concerning my notice to Douglass Township of the intent to "reserve my right to file suit", that is customary when the possibility of future civil legal action is hanging in the balance.

Certain false allegations of impropriety were made to a member – or members –of the public, both in private and in a public meeting. I felt compelled to do this in order to protect myself and my family from any slanderous and/or false remarks made by – or inferred by – any member or member of the Douglass Township Board of Supervisors.

Additionally, I would like to clarify that the statements made by the former Chairman of the Board and/or any other supervisors were personal in nature, and not professional or related to my position of State Constable. As an elected official and law enforcement professional, I pride myself in being beyond reproach on a professional and personal level.

It is disheartening to me both as an elected official, and a citizen of the township, that a sitting supervisor would use the authority and status of their position in order to file a "Right to Know" request concerning myself and/or my family members, in an attempt to embarrass or discredit me for their own personal gain or agenda. I will not stand by idly as others have in the past and be bullied, threatened or coerced by anyone.

I simply wish to continue my service as a respected public servant and a volunteer to the township in peace and without unnecessary conflict, as is the right that any citizen should be afforded. No citizen of any township or borough should have to be concerned with one of their elected officials attempting to embarrass or discredit them by attempting to dig up non-existent "dirt" because they are upset with them for one reason or another.

Respectfully,

Constable Joshua Stouch

Douglass Township, Pa

We will continue update this story with details and comments from those involved.

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