Pennsylvania Supreme Court Criticizes Philadelphia DA for Misleading Courts

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued a ruling on June 17, 2026, criticizing Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner for misleading state courts and withholding evidence in cases where his office sought to overturn murder convictions. The court reversed a lower court's decision to grant a new trial to convicted murderer Lavar Brown, stating that Krasner's office's concession for a new trial was unreliable. The ruling highlighted a pattern of misconduct, including lying to the court, failing to conduct adequate investigations, and a lack of candor in multiple cases. The court ordered state Attorney General Dave Sunday to review future cases where Krasner seeks to reverse convictions, emphasizing the need for oversight to ensure justice for victims' families. Krasner has faced criticism for his policies and has been supported by liberal donors, but he has remained in office despite these challenges.