Charges have been filed against a Pennsylvania state parole agent in the July death of Marchello Woodard, according to court documents filed Friday.
Kevin Seelinger, 35, of Edinboro, faces charges including homicide, aggravated assault, simple assault, harassment and recklessly endangering another person. He has not yet been arraigned.
Woodard was fatally shot during a compliance check on July 2.
His death was ruled a homicide following an autopsy July 3, according to the Erie County coroner.
The charges follow an investigation by Pennsylvania State Police in collaboration with the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, which is county protocol for officer-involved shootings.
FOP Lodge 92 Responds to Charges Against Member:
“The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 92 expressed strong disappointment today after the district attorney filed criminal charges against one of its members, calling the decision “an extraordinary failure of judgment.”
Executive Director Tom Wines emphasized that the charges are allegations, not proven facts, and reaffirmed the officer’s right to the presumption of innocence and due process. Wines noted the member’s years of service in a “difficult and dangerous profession” and said the organization will continue to support him as the legal process unfolds.
“We have full confidence that the facts will be examined through the judicial system and not tried in the court of public opinion,” Wines stated.
The FOP also extended condolences to the family of Mr. Woodard, acknowledging the tragedy of any loss of life and the pain caused by the incident. The organization said it will not provide further comment out of respect for ongoing legal proceedings.”