Judge Recuses Himself in Bam Margera Injury Lawsuit

WEST CHESTER, Pa. — A lawsuit against former ‘Jackass‘ star Bam Margera has been delayed after the presiding judge recused himself, citing potential conflicts of interest. The case involves a 2019 incident at Margera’s ‘Castle Bam‘ property, where plaintiff Matthew Sharpler suffered severe injuries while riding a motorcycle intoxicated.

Chester County Judge Anthony T. Verwey stepped down from the case on Wednesday, two days after the trial was set to begin. Margera’s legal team requested Verwey’s recusal, arguing that his prior involvement in a 2007 zoning case against Margera could create a perception of bias. Verwey, who has served on the county bench since 2022, agreed to withdraw to maintain public confidence in the judicial process.

The lawsuit, filed in 2021 by Sharpler’s attorney H. Fintan McHugh, alleges that Margera created a dangerous environment at his Pocopson Township property, which led to Sharpler’s injuries. On June 23, 2019, Sharpler was reportedly intoxicated and attempting stunts on a motorcycle when he crashed, sustaining life-threatening injuries, including traumatic brain injury and fractures.

McHugh claims that Margera encouraged reckless behavior at Castle Bam, providing alcohol and drugs to guests and profiting from videos of such incidents. ‘Bam made a career out of promoting reckless stunts at Castle Bam,’ McHugh stated in court filings. ‘He actively encouraged everything that led to the accident.’

Margera’s attorneys, led by Eugene Malady, deny responsibility, arguing that Sharpler voluntarily consumed alcohol and drugs and chose to perform stunts. They contend that Margera was not present during the crash and had no duty to protect Sharpler from obvious risks.

In his recusal order, Verwey criticized Margera’s legal team for their delayed request and lack of professionalism. ‘The court must adhere to a higher standard,’ Verwey wrote. ‘It is the court’s obligation to protect public confidence in the administration of justice.’

The case has yet to be reassigned to a new judge, and no new trial date has been set. Sharpler continues to require medical care for his injuries, while Margera faces potential liability for the conditions at his property.