Harrisburg, PA – Charges have been filed against former Greene County District Attorney David Russo and former Chief Detective Zachary Sams following an investigation by the 51st Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, according to Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry. Charges against Russo, 47, and Sams, 40, include Retaliation for Past Official Action, Official Oppression, and Conspiracy. Russo faces additional charges of Conflict of Interest and Misapplication of Entrusted Property.
Attorney General Henry emphasized the critical role of District Attorneys and their deputies in ensuring justice and adhering to the law. The charges originate from disputes between Russo and other Greene County officials, with allegations that Russo used his position to retaliate against opponents and support his reelection efforts.
A significant point of conflict involved the Victim Witness Coordinator (VWC) position in the DA’s office. After the VWC’s resignation, Russo reportedly failed to notify the County HR, leading to the Commissioners hiring a new VWC who reported directly to them. Russo allegedly resisted this change, cautioning local law enforcement against working with the new VWC.
