R. Budd Dwyer

R. Budd Dwyer, born on November 21, 1939, was a prominent American politician and educator who made significant contributions to Pennsylvania's political landscape. He served as the 70th Treasurer of Pennsylvania from 1981 until his tragic death in 1987. Prior to this role, Dwyer was a Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives from 1965 to 1971 and subsequently represented the state's 50th district in the Pennsylvania State Senate from 1971 to 1981.

During his tenure, Dwyer faced a tumultuous period in Pennsylvania's history, particularly concerning the overpayment of federal taxes by state workers due to prior administrative errors. This situation necessitated a multimillion-dollar recovery contract to ensure fair compensation for the affected employees. However, in 1986, Dwyer was embroiled in a scandal when he was convicted of accepting a bribe from Computer Technology Associates, a California-based firm, to secure the contract despite their lack of experience and higher costs.

His conviction included eleven counts of conspiracy, mail fraud, perjury, and interstate transportation in aid of racketeering. Dwyer was set to be sentenced on January 23, 1987, but on January 22, he held a press conference in his office at the Pennsylvania Finance Building, where he infamously took his own life with a .357 Magnum revolver in front of reporters. This shocking event was broadcasted to numerous viewers across Pennsylvania and the Delaware Valley, leaving a lasting impact on the public.

Despite efforts by his legal team to appeal posthumously, all appeals were denied, and his convictions remained intact. Dwyer's legacy is marked by his tragic end and his status as one of only three former Pennsylvania State treasurers convicted of corruption since the 1980s, alongside Barbara Hafer and Rob McCord.