Dave Kovach

CRANBERRY TWP — District Judge Dave Kovach has served his community for 38 years as a police officer and a judge. He wants to add another six years to that total.

Kovach, 60, will run for re-election as the township’s district judge. He first must collect 100 signatures from both Democrats and Republicans as he intends to cross-file for the May 2015 primary.

Kovach said serving as district judge for the past five years has been one of the greatest honors of his life.

First elected in 2009, Kovach became district judge after for more than 32 years with the Cranberry Township Police Department, where he retired as a sergeant.

“I loved being a police officer,” he said. “But I love being a magistrate too. I don’t think many people in life get the chance to do two jobs they love.”

He said, “I think my record of being a fair judge stands on its own merit. However, I’ll be prepared for however the election process plays out.”

Kovach said he isn’t aware of any potential challengers in the May primary.

Among his biggest accomplishments, Kovach said, is establishing an alternative sentencing program for juvenile offenders charged with minor crimes such as retail theft.

Kovach said he gives those juveniles a chance to get the crime expunged from their permanent record by doing activities like community service.

He’s also implemented a driver’s education program for young motorists charged with minor traffic violations.

Kovach maintains that he strives to be a fair judge. It’s important that he stays fair, he said, because often he is the only judge citizens see in the judicial system.

He handles more than 6,000 cases a year, Kovach said, while earning more than $86,000 in salary.

“More people have contact with a magisterial district judge than any other person in the judicial system,” he said. “What I portray as a district judge is often the only perception people get of the local judicial system, so I take that responsibility very seriously. I try to conduct my courtroom in a very professional manner where people are treated fairly and with respect.”

Kovach said he has nothing but love for Cranberry, its people and the surrounding areas, which is why he wants to return for another term.

“It’s been a great place to live and raise a family,” he said. “I couldn’t be happier. Cranberry has been very, very good to me, and I’m very proud of the accomplishments I’ve made in the community.”

Kovach said he’s looking forward to moving into the new district judge’s office early next year with his three clerks and an administrative assistant.

He lives in Cranberry with his wife, Pat, and has two children, Jennifer and David.