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Statement of Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice J. Michael Eakin in Light of Indictments Related to Philadelphia Traffic Court

News Article

January 30, 2013

HARRISBURG — Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice J. Michael Eakin issued the following statement today in light of federal indictments of judges and others related to Philadelphia Traffic Court:

“Today’s indictments by U.S. Attorney Zane David Memeger define more clearly reports that have circulated in the media of a federal investigation into alleged corruption in traffic court. As well, the indictments appear to correspond to the results of a separate, in-house review of practices at traffic court which was initiated by Chief Justice Ron Castille.

“The justice system will ultimately prevail as these prosecutions are further pursued by the U.S. Attorney and the defendants are afforded their opportunity to respond.

“In the meantime, my colleagues and I have full confidence in the leadership of Common Pleas Judge Gary Glazer, a former federal prosecutor, who was specially appointed by the chief justice to administer traffic court.

“Importantly, Philadelphia Traffic Court remains open and newly-assigned senior magisterial district judges from various counties have been appointed to hear cases. The Administrative Office of Pennsylvania Courts has advised Judge Glazer that additional judicial support is available if and when needed.

“There are hundreds of magisterial district judges and senior judges across Pennsylvania who are firmly dedicated to the principles outlined in the oath which each affirmed upon taking office. We will call upon several of them over time to meet traffic court’s need for judges to dispassionately hear cases brought before them. All citizens appearing in traffic court should know that their cases will be fairly heard.

“Now that these indictments have been handed down, Judge Glazer will actively continue his job to reform traffic court with the Supreme Court’s support.”

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Media contact: Jim Koval, 717-231-3324