JOHNSTOWN: A federal judge has established a new deadline in the ongoing criminal case against former DuBois City Manager John “Herm” Suplizio, as prosecutors seek a hearing that could remove one of his attorneys from the case over alleged conflicts of interest.
In a court order issued Saturday, U. S. District Judge Stephanie L. Haines granted the defense additional time to respond to the government’s motion requesting a formal hearing on the matter. Suplizio must file his response by March 20, 2026.
That filing will determine whether the court proceeds with a hearing that could potentially disqualify defense attorney William A. Shaw, Jr.
Alleged Conflict Of Interest
Federal prosecutors argue Shaw has what they describe as an “actual conflict of interest.” According to court filings, Shaw currently represents former DuBois Police Chief Blaine Clark in a separate civil case. Clark is expected to be subpoenaed by the government as a fact witness in Suplizio’s criminal trial.
If that occurs, Shaw could find himself in the position of cross-examining Clark — a client he represents in another legal matter. Prosecutors contend that scenario raises serious ethical concerns.
In addition, the government has pointed to Shaw’s involvement in recording a May 2023 executive session of DuBois City Council. During that closed-door meeting, council members discussed a bag containing $93,920 in cash that was allegedly connected to Suplizio and delivered by City Solicitor Toni Cherry.
Prosecutors argue Shaw could potentially be called as a witness regarding that recording. Legal ethics rules generally prohibit attorneys from serving as both an advocate and a witness in the same proceeding, a situation known as the “advocate-witness rule.”
The Underlying Criminal Case
Suplizio and former DuBois Area United Way executive Roberta Shaffer face charges of conspiracy to commit federal program theft along with multiple counts of federal program theft. Authorities allege the two engaged in a scheme involving the misuse of public and nonprofit funds spanning from 2008 through 2022.
A superseding indictment later broadened the scope of the alleged conspiracy and added federal money laundering charges tied to financial transactions exceeding $10,000.
Prosecutors have stated that Suplizio would not be left without legal representation if Shaw were removed from the case, noting he remains represented by attorneys Michael Comber and Alyssa Angotti.
The court’s next steps hinge on Suplizio’s March filing. If Judge Haines determines a hearing is warranted, it could shape the structure of the defense team as the case moves closer to trial.
Further developments are expected in the coming weeks as the deadline approaches.
