* This story has been updated to include the House Democratic leaders’ statement.
Leaders of Pennsylvania’s House of Representative call the news of six-term Democratic incumbent Rep. Kevin Boyle’s arrest for harassment and violating a protection from abuse order “troubling” and say he needs to resign.
The statement comes in response to the Friday arrest of Boyle in Philadelphia. He was released without bail and his preliminary hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, according to court documents.
“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,” according to the statement released on Saturday afternoon by leaders of the House Republican majority.
“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.”
Leaders of the House Democratic Caucus issued a statement (see below) later, expressing concern for Boyle and everyone involved.
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 another member of the House Democratic Caucus, Rep. Margo Davidson of Delaware County, was charged with theft relating to the misuse of campaign funds and resigned from her seat.
The statement issued by the House Democratic leadership team 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.”
Jan Murphy may be reached at jmurphy@pennlive.com. Follow her on Twitter at @JanMurphy.
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