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Pa. House Democratic leaders hope lawmaker will overcome ‘mental health challenges’ after arrest

Patriot-News - 9/25/2021

Leaders of Pennsylvania House of Representatives Democratic Caucus on Saturday afternoon released a statement following the Friday arrest of one of their members, Rep. Kevin Boyle, on harassment and violation of a protection from abuse order.

Their statement said: “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.”

Boyle, a six-term incumbent, was arrested on Friday on the charges and was released without bail. His preliminary hearing is set for Tuesday, according to court documents.

The House Republican leaders called Boyle’s arrest troubling and urged him to resign.

Boyle, who has been reported as dealing with personal issues, was stripped of his committee chairmanship of the House Finance Committee earlier this week by his caucus leaders and his Capitol access badge had been invalidated, forcing him to enter the Capitol as a visitor and be subjected to a metal detector screening.

He told Spotlight that he was “not fully certain what their thinking is” behind that decision.

Boyle is the brother of U.S. Rep. Brendan Boyle, D-Pa., who is serving his fourth term in Congress.

His arrest comes about two months after the House minority caucus saw another member of the House Democratic Caucus, Rep. Margo Davidson of Delaware County, resign after being charged with theft relating to the misuse of campaign funds.

Jan Murphy may be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy.

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