Pennsylvania Judge Convicted of Shooting Ex-Boyfriend While He Slept

Sonya McKnight, a suspended magistrate judge in Pennsylvania, was convicted of attempted homicide and aggravated assault for shooting her estranged boyfriend, Michael McCoy, in the head while he slept in February 2024. The jury deliberated for about two hours before reaching the verdict, with prosecutors arguing that McKnight acted out of jealousy after McCoy attempted to end their year-long relationship. McCoy testified that he could not see after the shooting but identified McKnight as the only other person present at the time. McKnight's defense claimed that gunpowder residue found on McCoy's hands suggested he may have shot himself. Following the verdict, McKnight was taken into custody pending sentencing scheduled for May, where she faces up to 60 years in prison. This incident follows a history of misconduct allegations against McKnight, leading to her suspension from the bench since November 2023.