Case against former Montco commissioner Matthews ends with 1 year probation

Former Montgomery County Commissioner Chairman James Matthews has agreed to a deal that has him paying up and serving probation. Matthews was arrested seven months ago after a grand jury investigation — and accusations that he lied about his relationship with a title company that did county business.

James Matthews’ attorney Matthew Haverstick said his client is satisfied with the agreement.

“The terms are one year probation, an assessment of court costs, and a contribution of $12,000 to the Freedom Foundation of Valley Forge,” Haverstick said Tuesday. “Mr. Matthews is looking forward to the future.”

At the time of his arrest, a lawyer representing Matthews said his client believed the investigation was politically motivated. Matthews said then, through his attorney, that he looked forward to being exonerated of the charges in court.

The charges were the result of an 18-month investigation that began with allegations that Matthews violated Pennsylvania’s Sunshine Act by meeting with another county commissioner privately.