Philly police: Rep. Kevin Boyle facing arrest warrant for charge he violated PFA

State Rep. Kevin Boyle (D-Philadelphia) faces an arrest warrant for allegedly violating a protection from abuse order, a Philadelphia police spokesperson said Tuesday.

The arrest warrant, which involves a court order obtained against Boyle by his ex-wife, was first reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer. It follows a February incident in which Montgomery County police investigated allegations that Boyle threatened employees of a Rockledge tavern while under the influence of alcohol.

In a video that circulated widely on social media, Boyle is seen threatening to have the establishment shut down and to block the military promotions of women employees after being asked to leave. 

Boyle, who is seeking an eighth term representing his northeast Philadelphia district, faces a primary challenge from Sean Dougherty, the nephew of former labor leader John Dougherty.

Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) provided a statement through his spokesperson late Tuesday: “I love Kevin, but I have serious concerns about his mental health and it breaks my heart to see him this way. I hope he gets the help he needs.”

In February, Bradford said the video of the outburst at the bar was troubling and that Boyle had been open about his personal troubles. 

“We continue to encourage our colleague and dear friend to seek help. Our commitment to delivering mental health services does not stop at the Capitol steps,” Bradford said in a statement. 

Boyle faced a call for his resignation from former Gov. Tom Wolf in 2021 after he was arrested in September of that year for harassment and violating a protection abuse order filed by his then-wife.

Rockledge police Chief John Gallagher said in a news release that a bouncer at the Malt House bar and restaurant called 911 at 12:18 a.m. Feb. 8 alleging that Boyle had threatened to hit women working at the bar including the bartender. 

“Police also received information that Mr. Boyle was intoxicated and possibly under the influence of drugs,” the news release said.

Upon arriving at the bar, an officer saw Boyle standing outside near the front door. Boyle presented his driver’s license when asked but would not provide further details, the release said. 

No injuries were reported and the staff said they did not want to press charges but wanted Boyle removed. The officer told Boyle that he was banned from the bar and Boyle left on foot.

Boyle’s personal troubles come during a Legislative session marked by House Democrats fighting to keep their one-vote majority through a series of resignations and special elections.

This article was updated at 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, to include a comment from House Majority Leader Matt Bradford.