State Rep. Kevin Boyle arrested, charged with harassment and violation of protection from abuse order

Democratic State Rep. Kevin Boyle was arrested Friday in Philadelphia and charged with harassment and violation of a protection from abuse order filed by his wife.

In a statement, Boyle’s lawyer, R. Emmett Madden, said: “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.”

Boyle is scheduled for a mental health evaluation as part of an agreement with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, Madden said, and “intends to follow through with all court, mental health and medical recommendations, including treatment.”

“We are optimistic that with treatment, Kevin can return to full health, resolve these charges, and continue serving his constituents,” he said.

The arrest is a “domestic issue,” Madden confirmed.

House Republican leadership issued a statement Saturday calling Boyle’s arrest “more than troubling” and urging him to resign.

“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,” said the statement from House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff, of Centre County.

House Democratic leadership issued a statement saying it is “thankful” Boyle has agreed to undergo evaluation and treatment for “ongoing mental health challenges” and said, “Our thoughts and prayers are first and foremost with Rep. Boyle’s wife and two young children.”

The charges come after a series of unusual events surrounding Boyle, who represents parts of Northeast Philadelphia and Montgomery County.

Earlier this month, Boyle was removed from his position as House Finance Committee chairman and had his access to the Capitol limited. The reasons for the moves were unclear. Boyle only responded by saying that Democratic House leaders were given “incorrect information about me” over the summer.

In August, Boyle attacked Councilmember Isaiah Thomas over Twitter, calling him “probably the worst member of Philadelphia City Council” and a “total fraud!” A spokesperson for Thomas said the attacks were bizarre, as the two have been friends and political allies for a decade.

Boyle, 41, was released Saturday morning without having to post bail. A court hearing is scheduled for Tuesday morning.

A member of a politically powerful Northeast Philadelphia family, Boyle was elected in 2010 when he beat House Speaker John Perzel, a Republican who was embroiled in a corruption scandal.

His brother, Rep. Brendan Boyle, is in his fourth term representing Philadelphia in Congress.

Spotlight PA writer Angela Couloumbis contributed to this article.