Two months after a video was spread on social media of Pennsylvania’s Democratic state Representative Kevin Boyle making drunken threats in a bar, he is now facing more serious consequences. An arrest warrant has been issued for him, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. The warrant comes after Boyle was accused of violating a protection from abuse order filed against him by his ex-wife. The specific charge is for communication, according to police representative Eric Gripp.
This incident follows a previous arrest for Boyle in 2021, which was later expunged. He claimed that the arrest and subsequent mental health treatment helped save his life. However, in the same year, he was also accused of harassment and violating a protection from abuse order against his then-wife, as reported by WCAU.
The Democratic House Majority Leader, Matt Bradford, has expressed concerns about Boyle’s mental health. He stated, “I love Kevin Boyle, and I want him to get the help he needs. They’re not mutually exclusive. It breaks my heart to see him this way.” The House Democratic Campaign Committee is also supporting another Democrat, Sean Dougherty, in the upcoming primary election on April 23rd.
Boyle has been serving his northeast Philadelphia district since 2011, according to WPVI-TV. This recent incident has brought attention to his troubles with alcohol and mental health. In February, a video was released of Boyle in a bar, appearing to be heavily intoxicated and becoming increasingly confrontational when asked to leave. He can be heard in the video saying, “I can end this bar, by the way. I’ll end this bar.” He also asked the staff if they knew who he was to try and intimidate them.
The bar eventually banned Boyle, according to CBS. In response to the incident, the state House Democratic released a statement saying, “Rep. Boyle has been open about his personal challenges. We are encouraged that our colleague and dear friend is seeking help. Our commitment to delivering mental health services does not stop at the Capitol Steps.” They also emphasized the importance of seeking treatment for mental health and the need to reduce the stigma surrounding it.
JUST IN: Arrest warrant issued for Pa. State Rep. Kevin Boyle (D) due to violation of a protection from abuse order, WPVI reports.
Earlier this year, Boyle made headlines for being drunk in a bar. He later said he was "seeking help." pic.twitter.com/lasYNeGCow
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) April 16, 2024
It is clear that Boyle’s struggles with mental health and alcohol addiction are affecting his personal and professional life. His behavior in the bar was unacceptable and led to consequences beyond just being banned. It is important for him to seek help and get the support he needs to overcome these challenges.