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.
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