§ 7172. Incompetence.
(a) Inquiry.--A court of common pleas with competent jurisdiction may inquire into the official conduct of the constable if any of the following apply:
(1) A surety of the constable files a verified petition alleging that the constable is incompetent to discharge official duties because of intemperance or neglect of duty.
(2) Any person files a verified petition alleging that the constable is incompetent to discharge official duties for a reason other than intemperance or neglect of duty. This paragraph includes an act of oppression of a litigant or a witness.
(b) Determination.--If the court determines that the constable is incompetent to discharge official duties, the following apply:
(1) The court may:
(i) require additional security from the constable; or
(ii) remove the constable from office.
(2) Upon removal under paragraph (1)(ii), the court may appoint a suitable individual to fill the vacancy until a successor is elected and qualified. The appointed individual must have a freehold estate with at least $1,000 beyond incumbrance or furnish security.
Structure Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes
Pennsylvania Consolidated & Unconsolidated Statutes
Section 7101 - Scope of chapter
Section 7103 - Cities of the first class
Section 7112 - Cities of the second and third classes
Section 7122 - Deputy constables
Section 7132 - Police officers
Section 7142 - Conduct and insurance
Section 7143 - Board established
Section 7144 - Program established
Section 7145 - Program contents
Section 7146 - Continuing education
Section 7148 - Use of firearms
Section 7149 - Restricted account
Section 7151 - General imposition of duties and grant of powers
Section 7153 - Service of process
Section 7154 - Collection of taxes
Section 7155 - Arrest of offenders against forest laws
Section 7157 - Returns and appearance
Section 7158 - Arrest in boroughs
Section 7159 - Trespassing livestock
Section 7159.1 - Sale of trespassing livestock
Section 7161.1 - Specific fees
Section 7163 - Election services
Section 7164 - Impounding, selling and viewing fees
Section 7166 - Returns to court
Section 7171 - Election notice in certain areas
Section 7174 - Action against security
Section 7175 - Criminal penalty
Section 7176 - Compensation violation