HARRISBURG, PA—Former Somerset County District Attorney, Jeffrey L. Thomas, was sentenced to 2 ¼ to 7 years in prison by Attorney General Michelle Henry on charges stemming from a September attack at a Windber woman’s residence.
A jury in Somerset County convicted Thomas in March on six charges, including indecent assault, strangulation, simple assault, unlawful restraint, false imprisonment, and criminal trespass.
Thomas, age 37, must register with police as a sex offender for a period of 15 years.
“Jeffrey Thomas was chosen by the voters to protect the citizens of Somerset County,” stated Attorney General Henry. “Instead, he violated his oath and duty, causing serious harm to his victim and those close to her. This sentence is a reminder that no one is above the law, and my office will hold violent offenders accountable, no matter their position or profession.”
The Office of Attorney General’s investigation revealed that Thomas entered the victim’s home on the night of the incident, refused to leave, and subsequently beat and sexually assaulted her. Trial testimonies showed that Thomas had been contacting the victim for months, sending her unwanted and inappropriate messages and images.
The victim testified that Thomas’s position as District Attorney made it intimidating for her to report the unwanted contact promptly.
Chief Deputy General Patrick Schulte and Senior Deputy Attorney General Tomm Mutschler prosecuted the case.
Thomas faces a separate criminal case related to domestic abuse allegations in Cambria County, where he is presumed innocent. This case is also being prosecuted by the Office of Attorney General.