Convicted Ex-Pennsylvania Judge Wants Freedom Pending Appeal

A defense attorney says it’s “vital” for a retired Pennsylvania Superior Court judge to remain free while he appeals his insurance fraud conviction.

Defense attorney Philip Friedman says Michael Joyce’s ability to help craft his appeal is “unique” because Joyce is a former Superior Court judge. But Friedman says Joyce can only do that if he remains free on bond.

Joyce was sentenced to three years, 10 months in federal prison last week. A judge allowed him to remain free until he’s assigned to a federal prison, but Friedman wants his bond continued while his appeal is pending.

The 60-year-old Joyce was convicted in November of mail fraud and money laundering for collecting $440,000 by exaggerating neck and back injuries in an August 2001 fender bender.
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Information from: Erie Times-News