Bench Warrant Issued for Man After Failing to Appear in Court

Keith MatthewsKeith Matthews /Submitted Image

WEST CHESTER, PA — A bench warrant has been issued for the arrest of Keith Matthews, 38, after he failed to appear for a preliminary hearing on April 8, 2024, related to charges of theft and receiving stolen property, according to the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police Department.

Matthews was initially arrested on February 7, 2024, facing allegations of Theft by Unlawful Taking and related offenses. The charges stem from accusations that Matthews unlawfully took movable property and was in possession of stolen goods. His absence at the scheduled court appearance prompted Honorable Judge Mackenzie W. Smith of District Court 15-1-02 to issue a bench warrant for his failure to appear.

Keith Matthews is described as a Black male, 5’10” in height, weighing approximately 205 lbs, with black hair and brown eyes. Authorities are actively seeking information regarding Matthews’ whereabouts and urge anyone with knowledge of his location to contact the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police Department at 610-692-9600 or submit a tip online.

The issuance of a bench warrant is a routine procedure in cases where individuals do not appear for their court dates. It authorizes law enforcement to arrest the individual so that they can be brought before the court to address the charges against them.

It is important to note that the arrest of Keith Matthews, the criminal complaint filed against him, and the subsequent bench warrant are not indicative of guilt. Every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. As such, Matthews will have the opportunity to defend himself against the allegations in a legal proceeding.

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