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The administration of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro faces scrutiny over missing emails linked to a sexual misconduct complaint. During a court hearing on February 12, it was revealed that emails from a former deputy cabinet secretary, who reported harassment by a top aide, were deleted. The emails, sent between March 2 and March 10, 2023, were crucial as they covered the period after the complaint was filed.
According to The Bradford Era, Thomas Howell, the administration's attorney, stated that the emails were deleted per records retention schedules. However, Broad + Liberty's attorney, Thomas Breth, argued that emails should be retained for three to eight years, and the deletion violated state laws.
The complaint involved Mike Vereb, Shapiro’s former secretary of Legislative Affairs, who resigned six months after the allegations surfaced. The case has led to calls for sanctions against the administration for not adhering to document retention regulations. Delaware Valley Journal reported that Broad + Liberty's Right to Know requests for the emails were met with incomplete document production, prompting legal action.
Governor Shapiro has maintained that his administration follows document retention policies and emphasized a commitment to a safe work environment. However, critics, including Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward, have questioned Shapiro's handling of the situation, accusing the administration of protecting its office rather than addressing the allegations. The missing emails have become a significant issue for Shapiro, who was previously considered a potential vice-presidential candidate.
PA Town Hall highlighted that the missing emails raise concerns about transparency and accountability within the administration. The ongoing legal proceedings and potential sanctions could impact Shapiro's reputation and political future.