This is a long post, but I think it is important for anyone who wants to get to the bottom of what is happening here in Lancaster County. On Tuesday Aug 25th Governor Shapiro and officials from the PA Dept of Health and Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health held a press conference in Lancaster County and announced two “measles-associated deaths.” (See my previous posts for more details on this.) I have sought to keep an open mind and be objective, but the evidence now leads to the conclusion that there is deception happening here. This is a matter of great public importance. The Governor claimed there were two deaths in Lancaster County – the first deaths from Measles in the U.S. in 35 years. We have a right to know the facts on this. You cannot drop a bombshell like this and then essentially say all the information around it is top secret. The only way for government to have trust with citizens is through transparency and honesty. That is especially important since what happened during Covid. Asking questions and following the facts is not “pro-measles” or “anti-science.” It is what we all should do. The following is an attempt to follow the evidence that we currently have available to us. Ideally, in a functioning healthy system journalists would assemble this case and ask objective questions of the people who had the press conference rather than attack the people who are asking legitimate questions about the press conference. But that is not necessarily the system we are living in, so I will endeavor to do it. Let me walk you through the evidence that we have as I would have done for a jury when I was a prosecutor trying criminal cases in court. 1. The press conference: Officials at the Governor’s press conference used the term “measles-associated” (see press conference and accompanying press release) but clearly framed it as deaths FROM measles. The Governor stated that these are the first two measles-associated deaths in the U.S. in 35 years. People died FROM measles 35 years ago. Therefore, it would not be accurate to make that statement unless these current cases were in fact being presented as deaths attributable to measles in some significant way. This appears to be a carefully crafted attempt to overstate the case, while also maintaining some later wiggle room, i.e. “associated” to muddy the issue if it became clear these were not in fact measles deaths. This indicates deception. 2. The desired media response: The media, in large part, dutifully took their cue and reported two deaths “from” measles in Lancaster County. The New York Times: “Two unvaccinated people in Pennsylvania have died from measles, as a large outbreak there continues to spread, the state’s Health Department reported on Tuesday morning.” ABC News: “BREAKING: Two people have died in Pennsylvania from measles, the state health department said Tuesday. Both unvaccinated.” Importantly, the Governor, his administration, and other officials at the press conference did not correct these stories. The message had been conveyed as apparently it was intended. Note – it is clear now that these stories are not true and any credible news source would retract them rather than just shrug and move on. 3. The lack of transparency: Officials provided virtually no background information about these “measles-associated” deaths. DOH said to “protect the privacy of the individuals and their families, DOH will not release any additional details that could personally identify these individuals and their families,” however, they did release the medical information other than the fact that the two were “unvaccinated.” Importantly, the law DOES allow information to be released that does not violate privacy – i.e. more demographic and background information. I contend it was very important to do this when making such a big announcement, which made national news. Officials provided no corroborating evidence to their claims. 4. The story unravels: I then conducted an investigation and learned from the Lancaster County Coroner that there were zero reported measles deaths in Lancaster County. (See earlier posts.) I announced this publicly to be transparent. Neither the Governor’s Office nor Penn Medicine replied to my questions. The law requires deaths from contagious disease such as measles to be reported to the Coroner. The Coroner then released information that an infant had died during a home birth and the infant tested positive for measles but did not die of measles. (See Coroner statements to LNP, WGAL, and Philadelphia Inquirer.) 5. State officials then point to deceased infant: State officials, who previously refused to give any information on the two deceased individuals (other then they were unvaccinated) then pointed to the infant as one of the cases. (See DOH statement of 8/26/27.) PA Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen released a statement on 8/26/27 stating that she “thoroughly reviewed the case investigation information and sadly can confirm that the were two measles-associated deaths in Lancaster County…” 6. County Coroner and Forensic Patholgist report contradicts state officials: The County Coroner and the Forensic Pathologist, both of whom have many years of experience, rule out the claim that the infant can be one of the cases. “Lancaster County Coroner Steve Diamantoni said the cause of death was not from the measles. The newborn died shortly after birth from a laceration of the spleen, although measle antibodies were present in postmortem testing…” (Coroner interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer.) Moreover, the forensic pathologist who conducted the autopsy indicated the cause of death was not related to measles (Coroner interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer), thus ruling out the theory that has been raised by some that the spleen was enlarged or otherwise susceptible to this injury due to measles exposure. 7. The death investigation: Importantly, the County Coroner is THE person who has statutory authority to rule on cause and manner of death in Pennsylvania. The Coroner said “state officials had not contacted him personally as of Wednesday about the two Lancaster County measles-associated deaths.” (Coroner interview with the Philadelphia Inquirer.) Because this was a home birth where the infant died, and because the County Coroner and the forensic pathologist were the ones investigating this case – and came to the conclusion it was not measles related, – what evidence did the PA Secretary of Health “thoroughly” review? (Statement of Dr. Debra Bogen on 8/26/27.) There would be no hospital records in this case. The Coroner investigation WAS the investigation. But they never personally consulted the Coroner. So what other evidence is she using to determine this death was “measles-associated” to such a degree that they could report to the world that this was one of two measles deaths in Lancaster County? 8. Deception: Also important is the fact that officials emphasized in the press conference that the two individuals were “unvaccinated.” Now, technically that would be true for a baby who was born at home and immediately died. But there would be no possible way for the baby to vaccinated. The framing of this, or underlying assertion in it, seemed to be to indicate that the deceased person was unvaccinated by choice. This shows intent on the part of officials to deceive. Announcing a technically true statement, but keeping secret the context which would show there was no possible way for the baby to have been vaccinated before its death is deliberately deceptive. In the law, when trying cases in court, there is a jury instruction called “false in one, false in all.” It is the from the Latin term “falsus in uno, falsus in omnibus.” It means that if you find a witness lied about a material fact, the jury may choose to reject the rest of the witness’s testimony. That seems appropriate here. 9. Deception: Similarly deceptive is the following - after my investigation revealed that the County Coroner has zero deaths from measles, PA DOH said: “Not all deaths are referred to a coroner under Pennsylvania law.” (DOH Statement on 8/26/26.) This is technically correct. For instance, an elderly patient who dies of natural causes would not necessarily be referred to the County Coroner. However, the law does require a death known or suspected to be due to contagious disease be reported to the coroner. Thus, the coroner should have a record of any measles death in Lancaster County. Again, this is an apparent deliberate deception. Falsus in uno, falsus in omnibus. 10. The second case: We still know nothing about the second reported death. There has not even been an effort, to my knowledge, to explain this death or provide any details whatsoever – beyond “unvaccinated.” Again, under the law any death due to measles would be required to be reported to the County Coroner. He has no report. Given the other apparent deception here it is fair to ask whether the facts of the second case have been materially manipulated similar to the first case, or whether the second case exists at all. I think the people of Lancaster County deserve to have transparency over whether there were actually two measles deaths or not.

Protecting Lancaster County: Whether it is protecting our citizens from drug overdose deaths - Lancaster County has reduced them by around 80% - or protecting our citizens' votes - we stopped a large-scale attempted voter registration fraud operation in 2024 - we will always defend the citizens of Lancaster County, their rights, their safety, and the rule of law.

Question: Does it get any better than Lancaster County country roads in the Fall? Answer: Nope. Enjoy these Autumn days while they last. 🍂

It has been an honor to be co-chairman of Lancaster County Joining Forces since its creation in 2017. This is our countywide coalition to reduce overdose deaths here. Because of the team members from across the community - prevention, treatment, law enforcement, business, and more - it has been wildly successful. We have seen an incredible 80% reduction in deaths.

We have had real, measurable results in dramatically reducing the number of deaths in Lancaster County. We won’t be satisfied until it is zero, but we are also celebrating every life saved. We have a safer community because of the work of our Joining Forces team members and other partners across the county.

I have been outspoken on this case since the beginning because the facts are so terrible. Stranger kidnappings are very rare, but very dangerous and terrifying to the victim and the community. Now we know that charged individual is allegedly an illegal alien who drove from New Jersey to a very rural Lancaster County to attempt to prey on an Amish woman here. From the ABC27 article: "when she turned around after feeling a tap on her shoulder and saw Junior Davila-Moran, 26, according to an affidavit of probable cause filed by the Pennsylvania State Police. He was holding a knife and handcuffs." The charged individual was previously in custody and allowed to stay in the U.S. in a "Resettlement" program. From the LNP article today: “'In January 2018, Border Patrol arrested Davila-Moran in Donna, Texas after he illegally entered the country. He was transferred to Office of Refugee Resettlement custody due to being a juvenile,' an ICE spokesperson said in a statement." This is exactly why we must enforce the law. This is exactly what I have warned about in the face of anti-law enforcement protestors who come to our public meetings and attack law enforcement for doing their jobs and working with ICE. This is exactly why every law enforcement agency must work with their federal partners to keep Americans safe. If you care at all about your neighbors, enforce the law. (I am surprised the LNP actually reported that it was an illegal alien as they have consistently appeared to side with and work with anti-law enforcement protestors.)

We honored and said goodbye to Deputy Warden Joe Shiffer last week as he retired after 30 years of service with County Government, the last 15 years with the Prison. Joe has been a big part of our team as we took the Prison from a troubled organization to one that wins awards for professionalism and effectiveness. We are a better, safer community because of what he and the staff there have accomplished over the last decade. We thank him, his family, and the entire Prison team.

Lancaster County is beautiful. And special. It is worth protecting and defending.

Our Lancaster County Prison Correctional Officers go to extraordinary lengths to ensure the safety of all in the facility - both staff and inmates. I am proud that we have such a culture of professionalism and safety. This past Thursday at Prison Board we honored two for exceptional bravery, selflessness, and commitment to the preservation of life during a critical incident. During the incident, as an inmate began to ascend to the top tier in an apparent suicide attempt, the Officers decisively attempted to prevent the action. One of them also physically intercepted and redirected the inmate’s fall in a manner that significantly reduced the severity of the impact and prevented even more serious injury. Their quick thinking, courageous intervention, and willingness to place themselves in immediate danger to preserve life embody the highest ideals of the corrections profession. Both Officers actions reflect remarkable heroism and an unwavering dedication to protecting others. Their actions that day reflect great credit upon themselves, the Lancaster County Prison, and the County of Lancaster.

Good news! local21news.com/news/local/s…

Stranger abductions, and attempted abductions, are very rare in Lancaster County, but also incredibly dangerous and scary. This happened in a rural part of southeast Lancaster County and it is extremely troubling. I know the news has spread throughout that part of the community, and many are concerned, especially for our Amish neighbors. I talked with the District Attorney yesterday about this, and I know law enforcement takes these type of cases very seriously. I am hopeful they will be able to locate and arrest a suspect. In the meantime, please be vigilant and watch out for your family and neighbors. Lets all continue to do what we can to keep Lancaster County a very safe place for our families. dailyvoice.com/article/amish…

A lot going on this week but there is a theme running through it all, as there always is - preserving what we have here in Lancaster County. From discussing domestic violence prevention and public safety with members of the Lancaster County District Attorney's Office District Attorney's Office, to discussing the work of the Lancaster County Planning Commission and Planning Department, our goal is to protect our community. Protecting and keeping it safe. Protecting our natural resources and land, which requires balance because of the many people who want to live and raise a family here since it is such a great place to live. We are very fortunate to live in Lancaster County, and we are working to keep it a special place.

In Lancaster County we honor our history. In Lancaster County we support those who helped defend America. Our county has a long history of sending its citizens to serve, going all the way back to the Revolution. Did you know Lancaster County government has a Veterans Affairs Office that has a dedicated team who are there to help all those who served? They do a great job helping Lancaster County veterans. Our staff can interface with the Federal VA, help veterans obtain the benefits they have earned, and support veterans in other ways. We want Lancaster County to be the most veteran friendly county anywhere! co.lancaster.pa.us/163/Veter…

From the fields to the river it is shaping up to be a beautiful Fall 🍂 around Lancaster County! Get outside and enjoy it!

It is Fire Prevention Month, and we were pleased to be joined this week by Fire Chiefs and members of our Public Safety team to talk about preventing fires, including safe use and disposal of rechargeable batteries.

Lancaster County farms should be owned by Lancaster County farm families. We are making sure they stay that way - not big out of state or foreign investment firms. It is Lancaster County soil and our home. We plan to keep it that way. Today at our weekly commissioners meeting we approved funding through the Next Generation Farm Loan Program for two farms. This will help keep two Lancaster County family farms in the family into the next generation. - A farm in Drumore Township - A farm in Strasburg Township Moreover, Lancaster County has preserved forever approximately 126,000 acres of farmland between County government and the non-profit Lancaster Farmland Trust. We are the #1 county in the NATION for farmland preservation. We are protecting our food supply. We are protecting our land. We are protecting our future. We are protecting our home.

Get the latest news around County government! content.govdelivery.com/acco…

It would be hard to find a more historic and beautiful location around Lancaster County to present a proclamation than the old courthouse. You can almost hear the echoes of court arguments from the 1850s here. So it was a perfect setting to present the Juvenile Justice Week Proclamation today. The Board of Commissioners, together with President Judge Brown, thanked the Juvenile Probation Department, and other partners, for what they do for public safety in Lancaster County.

So tragic. So avoidable. No Lancaster County family should ever be left to mourn a loved one because they were killed by someone who never should have been on the road - because they never should have been in the country. As a prosecutor I sat with family members of victims hit on the road by illegal aliens. There is nothing more frustrating when people are victims of a crime that never should have happened. This kind of tragedy is predictable, avoidable, and awful. The anti-law enforcement protestors who come to our meetings and anti-law enforcement journalists who write LNP editorials railing against enforcement of our immigration laws (which were passed by Democrats and Republicans together) don't care about this victim. They don't care about his family. They only care about their political agenda.

Wow, what a beautiful evening to open the 72nd annual Manheim Community Farm show last night! The weather does not get much better than what we are going to have this week, so make sure you get out and visit them. It is a great, local Lancaster County event. I was happy to help kick off the festivities and to thank the volunteers who make it happen, including President Glenn Stoltzfus and his team. Warning - if you go, and you want one of their milkshakes, make sure you go early! (See line below.)

It is Monday. In Fall. In beautiful Lancaster County. There is no better place to be. Enjoy the road, wherever it takes you this week.