Updated: Magisterial District Judge Pat Broscius Has Passed Away

After a lengthy illness, Magisterial District Judge Pat Broscius has passed away. Her district included Bethlehem Township, and she was seeking re-election to the seat she first won in 2015. Prior to that, she was a highly regarded Assistant DA in Northampton County. 

She also knows what it is like to be a woman in what was once a man's world. She is the first woman ever hired as a full-time prosecutor in Northampton County, as hard as that may be to believe. She dedicated her career as a prosecutor to protecting children, bringing sexually violent predators to justice and selflessly serving the citizens of Northampton County. 

Over the years, you may have seen Pat after work, running in one of the parks, often accompanied by her children. I used to bump into her on occasion, back in my running days. 

Broscius is a lifelong resident of Northampton County. She grew up in Palmer Township, and attended St. Jane's, Notre Dame Green Pond, Northampton Community College and DeSales University. She was awarded her law degree from the Widener University School of Law in 1990, and went right to work. 

She was married to Attorney John Rybak, who unfortunately passed away before his time about six years ago.  She is the mother of thee great children - Daniel, Claire and Joseph.

I often saw her in the DA's office, where she always maintained an aura  of calm, no matter what was swirling around her. She spoke with a soft voice but had the deepest personal integrity.

She was the epitome of class and I will miss her very much. But she's with John now. 

DA Terry Houck's Statement: The District Attorney’s Office is saddened to learn of the passing of Magisterial District Judge Patricia C. Broscius. For the past six years, Judge Broscius honorably served the people of Bethlehem Township, treating everyone who came before her fairly and compassionately.

Prior to serving as a judge, Pat spent 25 years serving the County of Northampton as an assistant district attorney. As the first female attorney in the office, Pat paved the way for those who came after her and acted as a mentor to countless attorneys. During her tenure, she worked tirelessly to advocate for survivors of child abuse and sexual assault. She was a voice for the voiceless. As a woman of faith, Pat believed helping these victims was her calling, and she passionately pursued justice each day. Pat’s unwavering dedication made Northampton County a safer community. 

 Pat’s passing is a profound loss for her family, her colleagues, and her community. She will be greatly missed

(Originally published 11:59 am)