Pennsylvania Judge Convicted of Attempted Homicide for Shooting Ex-Boyfriend

A judge in Pennsylvania, Sonya McKnight, has been convicted for the attempted murder of her ex-boyfriend, which left him blind in one eye due to a gunshot wound. The jury reached their decision after a two-day trial, where they found McKnight guilty of attempted homicide and aggravated assault following an incident that occurred in February 2024 at the victim's home just days after their breakup.

According to prosecutors, McKnight acted out of jealousy when her ex-boyfriend requested she move out of his residence. In the early hours of the morning, while the victim was asleep, she shot him in the head, resulting in significant injuries. During the trial, her defense argued that the victim could not definitively identify her as the shooter; however, the victim testified, stating that, despite his inability to see, McKnight was the only other person present at the time.

Cumberland County District Attorney Seán McCormack expressed satisfaction with the verdict, emphasizing the victim's credibility in the case, calling him a "walking miracle." Prior to her conviction, McKnight had a troubled judicial record, including a suspension in November 2023 due to alleged violations of probation linked to previous misconduct. Though she faced earlier criminal charges, she was acquitted in those cases.

Additionally, McKnight had previously shot her estranged husband in a 2019 incident that was ruled self-defense. After her conviction, a judge denied a plea from her defense to release her on bail. With the potential for a prison sentence of up to 60 years, McKnight is scheduled for sentencing on May 28.