York County News

Rep. Seth Grove of Dover has initiated proceedings for the impeachment of York County Court of Common Pleas Judge Steven Stambaugh. This action follows federal charges against Stambaugh, who is accused of involvement in a scheme to defraud taxpayers of unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic when he was practicing law.

Rep. Grove emphasized the seriousness of the matter stating, "No one is above the law, especially those who are supposed to judge and sentence those who have violated the law. A rogue judge who violates the law gives a blackeye to all those who hold dear our justice system to be fair and impartial."

House Resolution 106, introduced by Grove, will allow the House Judiciary Committee to investigate Stambaugh's conduct to determine if impeachment is justified. Stambaugh faces 31 federal charges, including wire and mail fraud, witness tampering, and obstruction of justice.

The allegations suggest that Stambaugh directed employees of his law firm, Stambaugh Law, P.C., to collect unemployment benefits while continuing to work during the pandemic. Furthermore, between April 2021 and November 2022, he purportedly attempted to coerce a witness into providing false testimony and obstructed justice while already serving as a judge. This led to his suspension without pay by the Pennsylvania Court of Judicial Discipline.

Rep. Grove remarked, "The COVID-19 pandemic produced the largest financial fraud on taxpayers in the history of the world. All who committed such egregious offenses should be held accountable."

The House Judiciary Committee's investigation could result in the introduction of Articles of Impeachment, a committee vote, and possibly a full House vote. A majority House vote is required for impeachment, and the Senate trial for removal from office requires a two-thirds vote.

For further information, contact Media Representative Greg Gross at 717.260.6374.