HARRISBURG, PA — This week, charges were formally announced against former Greene County District Attorney David Russo and former Chief Detective Zachary Sams, following findings by the 51st Statewide Investigating Grand Jury. The charges arise from allegations linked to conflicts with other county officials and the alleged misuse of their official powers.
David Russo, aged 47, from Holbrook, Greene County, and Zachary Sams, aged 40, from McDonald, Washington County, have been charged with Retaliation for Past Official Action, Official Oppression, and Conspiracy. Russo faces additional charges of Conflict of Interest and Misapplication of Entrusted Property. This morning, Russo was arrested and appeared before Magisterial District Judge Tom Ankrom, where bail was set at $50,000 unsecured. Sams has been summoned to court.
The allegations stem from events where Russo allegedly sought to leverage his role for personal and political gain. A notable point of contention involved the Victim Witness Coordinator (VWC) position, which faced a vacancy during Russo’s tenure. Disregarding county protocol, Russo did not inform the HR department of the need for a replacement, prompting the county commissioners to appoint a new VWC under their direct supervision. Russo reportedly responded by advising local law enforcement against cooperating with the newly appointed VWC, suggesting potential criminal investigations if they did…