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Pa. lawmaker to have mental health evaluation following his arrest. Here's what happened

Beaver County Times - 9/27/2021

Sep. 27—A southeast Pennsylvania state legislator will be receiving mental health treatment after being arrested on Friday in Philadelphia and charged with violating a protection-from-abuse order.

State Rep. Kevin Boyle, D-Philadelphia, who represents the 172nd district covering parts of the city and Montgomery County, was also charged with harassment. A court hearing was scheduled for Monday morning.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reported that the order was filed by Boyle's wife and his lawyer, R. Emmett Madden, confirmed that the matter involved a "domestic issue." He also told the newspaper that Boyle is set to have a mental health evaluation under an agreement with the Philadelphia district attorney's office.

"We are optimistic that with treatment, Kevin can return to full health, resolve these charges, and continue serving his constituents," Madden told the Inquirer.

House Democratic Leaders issued a statement offering concerns for Boyle and his family, and offering their "full support" to his wife.

"We are saddened to learn of Rep. Kevin Boyle's arrest and concerned for everyone involved in this situation," the statement said.

"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."

House Republican leaders, though, called for Boyle to resign.

"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," their statement said. "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."

Boyle's arrest was just the latest case of turmoil surrounding him.

Last week, Spotlight PA reported that he had been removed as minority chairman of the House Finance Committee and had his access to the Capitol curtailed, forcing him to use public entrances.

Boyle only told Spotlight PA that House Democratic leaders received "incorrect information" about him over the summer, but he would not provide details.

J.D. Prose is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network's Pennsylvania State Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jprose@gannett.com.

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