Judge Chad Kenney OK’d forseaton federal bench
Delaware County Common Pleas Court Judge Chad F. Kenney has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate for a new post on the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
“During his years of public service, Judge Kenney has proven himself to be an independent and fair jurist who has served the people of Delaware County well,” said Republican Senator Pat Toomey in a joint release with his Democratic colleague, Bob Casey. “Judge Kenney will make a terrific addition to Pennsylvania’s Eastern District bench and I congratulate him.”
Kenney, 61, is a graduate of Monsignor Bonner High School, Villanova University and Temple Law School, where he served on the Law Review. He was nominated by President Donald Trump for the federal judgeship in December.
Kenney has served in a variety of roles in the Common Pleas C ourt, including family court, the criminal and civil trial sections and the motion hearing division. He most recently oversaw orphans court.
Kenney served as Delaware County Sheriff from 1998 until his appointment to the Delaware County bench in August 2003. He was elected to a full 10-year term on the bench later that same year and was elected by the Board of Judges to serve as president judge in June 2012, replacing Judge Joseph Cronin.
Kenney, a Republican and former Nether Providence party leader, served as president judge until 2017, when he was replaced by Judge Kevin F. Kelly. Kenney is on vacation and could not be reached for comment Friday, but Kelly said Kenney had demonstrated unwavering dedication to his responsibilities throughout his years on the bench to assure that the ends of justice were always met for all parties.
“The hallmark of Judge Kenney’s president judge tenure was a staunch commitment to systematic betterment and an insightful appreciation of the court’s need to recognize and effectively address within the constraints of the judicial function a host of societal concerns, including the ongoing opioid epidemic battle and the unique challenges presented by those suffering from mental illness and military veterans becoming enmeshed in the criminal justice system,” Kelly said in an emailed statement. “His foresightedness and tireless efforts in such regard led to the creation of the Mental Health and Veterans Court programs, along with the Second Chance Court treatment program, and the expansion of the existing Drug Treatment Court.”
“…The board of judges wishes him all the best for continued success on his assuming the federal bench.”