(Montgomery County Republican Committee)
The former head of the Republican party in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, Robert J. Kerns or “Bob,” has been charged with rape, reports NBC Philadelphia. Kerns resigned his position in the party in November 2013 after sexual assault allegations surfaced.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. He’s Also Charged With Drug Possession
(Kerns Law)
He’s charged with 19 counts of rape, sexual assault, indecent assault, simple assault and drug possession.
2. His Victim Was Believed to Have Been Unconscious
Kerns, 66, is alleged to have attacked a woman in October 2013. According to ABC Philadelphia, the woman is alleged to have been unconscious.
Philly.com reports that Kerns got drunk and assaulted the woman after a Republican dinner in October 2013.
3. After the Allegations Came Out, He Resigned
On November 14 2013, he resigned his position at the head of Montgomery County’s Republican committee. News that Kerns was being investigated was first announced by Philly.com on November 13. The statement about his resignation read:
The Montgomery County Republican Committee (MCRC) today received the resignation of its chairman, Robert J. Kerns.
MCRC has no comment on media reports related to a possible criminal investigation of Mr. Kerns unrelated to his duties as chairman.
4. He’s Also a High-Profile Lawyer
Kerns is a legal partner at Kerns, Pearlstine, Onorato & Hladik LLP, in Upper Gwynedd, Pennsylvania, shown here:
The victims is also said to have worked at the law firm, reports Politics PA.
Philly.com reports that one of Kerns’ legal partners will be subpoenaed to the grand jury.
5. Kerns’ Camp Has Remained Silent
Kerns has not made a public statement on the allegations or charges. The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office is expected to make a statement.
