Pubdate: Sun, 09 Jul 2000 Source: Tribune Review (PA) Copyright: 2000 Tribune-Review Publishing Co. Contact: http://triblive.com/ THE GOOD LIFE? If the allegations are true, it's no wonder Ron Whethers filed appeal after appeal to remain incarcerated at the Westmoreland County Prison. Based on comments last week from some prison guards, it appears the convicted drug dealer had it better in the county's big house than many folks have it on the outside. In addition to allegedly running his illicit business within the lockup with the help of at least one prison guard, Whethers also enjoyed certain privileges and amenities not afforded to the other inmates, the guards say. He was given cognac on holidays and had special foods delivered to his cell block for parties after his chores, they say. (He also regularly received new sneakers from the prison, though he had a medical clearance to get the footwear). Warden Kurt Scalzott said he was unaware of the guards' allegations (state troopers said they found a bottle of cognac in Whethers' cell after a raid on the prison last month). The guards also say Whethers was permitted to roam - and possibly conduct drug deals - during his nightly cleaning chores. The union representing the guards alleges that prison officials have refused to listen to their complaints about lax security (such as visitors who are marginally searched for contraband or drugs). Scalzott contends the union never approached him with any complaints. The allegations and finger-pointing of late reaffirm what we urged at the onset of this fiasco: the need for an independent, thorough review of what's going on behind the gates of the county's lockup. Now that the prison board has agreed that an investigation is warranted, it must proceed posthaste to get to the bottom of this sordid can of worms. - --- MAP posted-by: greg