Pocono News Section

Ciavarella, Conahan Suspended

Ciavarella, Conahan Suspended - Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 10:29PM EST

HARRISBURG, DAUPHIN COUNTY- Judges Michael Conahan and Mark Ciavarella have been suspended, per an order released Wednesday afternoon by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania. Ciavarella has been relieved of all judicial and administrative responsibilities and will continue to be paid. Conahan, a senior judge, will no longer receive his per diem pay. His pending judicial assignments have been rescinded.
The order reads "in view of the compelling need to protect and preserve the integrity of the Unified Judicial System and the administration of justice for the citizens of Luzerne County, Judge Mark A. Ciavarella, Jr. is hereby relieved of any and all judicial and administrative responsibilities as a judge of the Court of Common Pleas. Ciavarella's salary and benefits are not affected.

Both judges agreed to enter into guilty pleas Monday to offenses related to incarcerating juveniles for a profit.