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Robert DwyerAmerican politician who committed suicide on the morning of January 22, 1987
Date of Birth: 21.11.1939
Country:  USA |
Content:
- The Tragic End of R. Budd Dwyer
- Corruption Allegations
- Trial and Sentencing
- Public Suicide
- Tragic Demise
- Aftermath
The Tragic End of R. Budd Dwyer
Political CareerRobert Budd Dwyer embarked on his political career in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in 1965, representing the 6th Legislative District as a Republican. He served from 1965 to 1970. Subsequently, he became a member of the Pennsylvania Senate from the 50th Legislative District from 1971 to 1981. In 1981, he assumed the office of Pennsylvania State Treasurer, a position he held until his untimely demise.
Corruption Allegations
In the early 1980s, a mistake in Pennsylvania's tax system resulted in excessive withholding of income taxes from state employees. A multi-million dollar contract was awarded to determine the appropriate compensation settlements, with several auditing firms vying for the lucrative opportunity. In 1986, Dwyer was accused of accepting a bribe from a Californian firm that was allegedly seeking an unfair advantage in securing the contract.
Trial and Sentencing
Throughout the trial, Dwyer vehemently denied the allegations, claiming himself to be a victim of "political prosecution." The final verdict and sentencing were scheduled for January 23, 1987, the day after his tragic act.
Public Suicide
On the morning of January 22, 1987, Dwyer convened a press conference to "present new information regarding this matter." Visibly agitated and distressed, he proclaimed his innocence and refused to resign from his position as State Treasurer. In his final address, Dwyer stated, "I am a victim of political persecution, and my prison would be nothing more than an American version of the Gulag."
Tragic Demise
Midway through his prepared statement, Dwyer abruptly halted his reading and summoned three aides, handing each of them an envelope. One contained a suicide note for his wife, another held organ donation documents, and the third included a letter to the newly inaugurated Pennsylvania Governor, Robert P. Casey.
With a large-caliber Smith & Wesson Model 27 revolver in hand, Dwyer turned to those present and uttered, "Please leave the room if this offends you." Despite desperate pleas from the audience, Dwyer placed the barrel of the gun in his mouth and fired. He collapsed onto the floor, blood gushing from his nose and the bullet exit wound on the top of his head. The tragic event unfolded in front of five television cameras, leaving witnesses in shock and disbelief.
Aftermath
Pennsylvania State Treasurer R. Budd Dwyer's suicide left an indelible mark on the state capitol building. The wall behind where he stood when he pulled the trigger bears a prominent bullet hole. Though patched up and painted over, it remains a constant reminder of the tragic event. The incident sparked widespread outrage and debate, with many questioning the fairness of the prosecution and Dwyer's motives. Dwyer is buried in Blooming Valley, Pennsylvania.
