On Friday, May 22, 2026, the Pennsylvania Court of Judicial Discipline placed Lehigh County District Judge Amy L. Zanelli on judicial diversion and appointed a mentor as part of a program to resolve allegations of misconduct.
Zanelli, who took office in 2022, is accused of various rule violations, including using profanity in front of staff, maintaining a “book of grudges,” and keeping a sexually explicit calendar visible to employees. She also faces accusations of refusing to allow a defendant to cross-examine a victim, being unavailable or tardy for work, and exhibiting impatience and discourtesy.
The Pennsylvania Judicial Conduct Board filed a complaint against Zanelli earlier this year. As part of the diversion program, Zanelli will meet with her appointed mentor, Monroe County District Judge Danielle Travagline, at least six times by the end of 2026. She will also be on a one-year probationary period.
Her attorney, Sam Stretton, stated that Zanelli has been participating in the program “de facto” for several months, regularly meeting with her mentor, a therapist, and a psychologist. Stretton expressed optimism that the early termination of her probation may be requested due to her progress.
The allegations detailed in the complaint include negative commentary in the “book of grudges” about individuals who conducted business in her court. One entry reportedly described a local attorney with a derogatory term, and Zanelli allegedly encouraged staff to add to the book, which was started in November 2023 and removed from her office in early 2024.
Additionally, she is accused of an “improper demeanor” during a 2022 hearing where she made a defendant wait in the hall after murmuring, and the defendant, who lacked legal representation, was denied the opportunity to cross-examine a witness.
Further accusations point to habitual lateness for 9 a.m. proceedings, frequent absences on Fridays, and two-week absences during each summer month. These alleged lateness and absences reportedly caused “extreme inconvenience” and additional work for her staff, who had to reschedule hearings and manage public complaints about court business delays.
The diversion program aims to give judges a second chance, and Stretton noted that Zanelli is in her first term and adjusting to the role can take time.
In addition to mentoring, Zanelli is required to attend continuing education programs, study relevant materials, and discuss issues with her mentor. Travagline may also observe Zanelli in court as necessary. If Zanelli successfully completes the program, no disciplinary action will be taken.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
