A program implemented in Erie County during last year’s historic snowstorm is now under scrutiny, raising questions about its legality and oversight. The initiative, which involved inmates assisting with snow removal across the county, has become a point of contention between Erie County Executive Brenton Davis and Erie County District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz.
During the November 2022 snowstorm, Erie County faced significant challenges in ensuring public safety and maintaining essential services. County Executive Brenton Davis authorized the use of inmates to help clear snow, describing the effort as a life-saving measure. Davis has defended the program, stating that it was conducted legally under Title 37 of Pennsylvania state law, which governs inmate work programs. He emphasized that the initiative was a practical response to an emergency situation.
However, District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz has raised concerns about the program’s execution, arguing that proper legal procedures were not followed. In a statement to Erie News Now, Hirz expressed her support for work programs that provide job skills and rehabilitation opportunities for inmates but stressed the importance of adhering to established legal processes. Hirz also highlighted her office’s responsibility to ensure that any sentence modifications align with public safety and respect the voices of victims and their families…