Forfeiture Set in Ex-Pennsylvania Judge’s Fraud Case

A federal judge has set a forfeiture hearing for a former Pennsylvania Superior Court judge who is serving a 46-month prison sentence for insurance fraud.

Michael Joyce, of Millcreek Township, was convicted of mail fraud and money laundering in late 2008 for collecting $440,000 in a low-speed accident in August 2001.

Federal prosecutors say Joyce exaggerated claims of neck and back injuries to collect the money. A judge ordered Joyce to repay the money and forfeit various items he bought with it, including a motorcycle and a $360,000 home purchased in 2003.

Joyce’s wife, Joanne, and ErieBank are challenging the forfeiture order, saying they both have an interest in the home. ErieBank holds the mortgage on the home.

A federal court hearing is scheduled in Erie on Aug. 31.