John Henry Urbanski, Esq., founder of Urbanski Law Firm and retired police officer, has announced his candidacy for District Attorney of Schuylkill County.
Urbanski, a lifelong Republican, aims to bring fresh leadership, accountability, and a focus on public safety to the District Attorney’s office.
Urbanski's career began in law enforcement, where he served as a police officer for over a decade in Luzerne, Carbon, and Schuylkill Counties before retiring. He rose through the ranks to become Chief of Police and earned numerous commendations for his dedication to public safety and commitment to justice. These commendations include multiple awards for meritorious service, his service during the 2011 and 2018 floods in Luzerne County, and his outreach to the communities he served. As a police officer, Urbanski brought justice to numerous victims of crimes in several high-profile cases, resulting in numerous convictions.
Transitioning to law, Urbanski served as a law clerk at Hourigan, Kluger, and Quinn P.C. for two years, gaining valuable experience in plaintiff cases. He also served as a law clerk for the Honorable Kimberly Ward, State Senate Majority Leader, where he gained insights into the legislative process. Urbanski then joined a prominent Philadelphia-based law firm, focusing on medical malpractice defense before founding Urbanski Law Firm in Kingston and Pottsville, PA. His practice now serves individuals, corporations, and government entities across Pennsylvania, offering a wide range of legal services. As an attorney, he has worked for numerous candidates, serving as legal counsel for three U.S. Republican Senate races and one Republican U.S. House of Representatives race.
Urbanski holds a Juris Doctor from Widener University-Harrisburg Campus and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Penn State University. He lives in Schuylkill County with his wife, Lauren Elizabeth Urbanski, a nurse practitioner, and their two young children, John Theodore Urbanski (3) and Natalie Rose Urbanski (1).
Urbanski's platform includes several key pillars:
- Supporting Law Enforcement: Urbanski pledges to provide law enforcement officers with the tools and support needed to keep the community safe.
- Cracking Down on Violent Crime: He promises to prosecute violent offenders to the fullest extent of the law and ensure that criminals face real consequences for their actions.
- Reestablishing the Drug Unit: Urbanski plans to bring back a proactive drug unit to target dealers and clean up the streets.
- Ensuring No Sanctuary for Criminals: He vows full cooperation with immigration authorities to prevent Schuylkill County from becoming a sanctuary for dangerous individuals.
- Fighting Blight and Neglect: Urbanski will collaborate with municipal leaders to address property neglect, revitalize neighborhoods, and hold bad actors accountable.
- Restoring Fiscal Responsibility: He is committed to financial discipline within the District Attorney’s office, ensuring taxpayer money is spent wisely and effectively.
- Leading from the Front: Urbanski believes in visible and engaged leadership, working closely with law enforcement, municipal leaders, and community members to solve the county’s biggest challenges.
- Defending the Second Amendment: He is a strong advocate for the rights of law-abiding gun owners in Schuylkill County.
Urbanski's candidacy emphasizes his extensive background in law enforcement and legal practice, as well as his commitment to public safety and community engagement.
Statement from Urbanski
“As a lifelong Republican, I believe in the values of law and order, personal responsibility, and strong, principled leadership. Schuylkill County deserves a District Attorney who will not only prosecute criminals aggressively but also stand firmly with our law enforcement and lead from the front.
My experience as both a retired police officer and an attorney gives me a unique perspective on the challenges facing our community. I have seen firsthand the impact of crime on our neighborhoods, and I know what it takes to bring justice to those who need it most.
I am running for District Attorney because our county deserves a fresh, dedicated leader who will prioritize public safety, combat the scourge of drugs, and restore accountability to the DA’s office. My commitment to this community is unwavering, and I am ready to bring real change and real results to Schuylkill County.”