by A former Dauphin County judge has been sentenced to over 13 years in prison after being convicted of shooting her ex-boyfriend in the head while he slept.
Sonya McKnight, who served as a district magistrate judge, was found guilty of attempted homicide and aggravated assault.
The incident occurred in February 2024 at her former partner’s home in Harrisburg.
What Happened
McKnight was sentenced to 13.5 to 30 years in prison following her April 2025 conviction.
The shooting occurred during the night while McKnight’s estranged boyfriend was asleep.
She was the only other person in the home at the time, according to trial testimony.
Key Details
- Date of shooting: February 2024
- Location: Ex-boyfriend’s home in Harrisburg
- Victim: Suffered a gunshot wound to the head but survived
- Conviction: Attempted homicide and aggravated assault
- Sentence: 13.5 to 30 years in state prison
Authorities said McKnight had been told repeatedly to leave the home after the relationship ended.
Prosecutors described her as a jealous ex-partner unwilling to accept the breakup.
Her attorney argued the victim couldn’t identify the shooter.
Reactions or Statements
During sentencing, the judge noted McKnight showed “no remorse” for her actions.
McKnight maintains her innocence and has filed an appeal, according to her attorney.
She formally resigned her judicial position during the sentencing hearing.
Investigation or What’s Next
McKnight was initially suspended without pay in November 2023 for unrelated judicial misconduct.
That case stemmed from a 2020 traffic stop involving her son, although she was acquitted of criminal charges.
Reports also revealed a 2019 shooting involving her estranged husband, which did not result in charges due to self-defense claims.
The current appeal process is underway.
FAQs
Who is Sonya McKnight?
She was elected as a Dauphin County district judge in 2015 and had prior involvement in judicial misconduct cases.
What was the motive behind the shooting?
Prosecutors believe jealousy and a refusal to accept the breakup drove the attack.
Did the victim survive?
Yes, the ex-boyfriend survived a gunshot wound to the head.
Was this McKnight’s first legal issue?
No. She was previously involved in a judicial discipline case and a 2019 shooting.
What’s next for McKnight?
Her defense team is appealing the conviction.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Former Judge Sonya McKnight of Dauphin County is now serving a lengthy prison term after being convicted of a violent attack on her ex-boyfriend.
Despite maintaining her innocence and pursuing an appeal, the court cited her lack of remorse during sentencing. Her legal troubles follow a controversial career marked by multiple past incidents.
