YORK, Pa. (AP) — A central Pennsylvania city councilman can keep his job despite his conviction on felony drug charges more than 20 years ago.
York Councilman Michael Helfrich survived a challenge to his eligibility for public office Wednesday when a county judge found his offenses didn't fit the standard of "infamous crimes" that would keep him from serving.
York County Common Pleas President Judge Stephen Linebaugh says a recent state Supreme Court ruling opened the door for him to decide Helfrich's specific crimes didn't bar him from office.
Helfrich pleaded guilty in 1991 to charges related to him offering a ride to man he knew was carrying LSD and psychedelic mushrooms.
York Mayor Kim Bracey had challenged Helfrich's write-in victory. She says she'll review the decision before deciding on an appeal.
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