The Judicial Conduct Board filed a formal complaint against Magisterial District Judge Joseph Zupsic alleging (1) that he had attempted to influence the outcome of four cases, i.e., by influencing prosecuting officers, a chief of a local police, and persuading a prosecuting witness to reduce a charge, charging that such conduct was such that brings the judicial office into disrepute and conduct which prejudices the proper administration of justice; and (2) that he failed to disqualify himself from four cases, charging that such failure was a violation of Rule 8A.(1) of the Rules Governing Standards of Conduct of Magisterial District Judges.

The Court concluded that Respondent’s conduct was such that (1) brought the judicial office into disrepute; (2) prejudiced the proper administration of justice, both of which were violations of Article V, §18(d)(1) of the Pennsylvania Constitution; and (3) violated Rule 8A.(1) of the Rules Governing Standards of Conduct of Magisterial District Judges.

Following a sanction hearing, the Court removed the Respondent from office and barred him from holding judicial office in the future.