What started out as an effort to help those released from the Allegheny County Jail once a week is now a circus environment three times per week. It was meant for those released to grab a snack or water, charge their phones, make a phone call or grab a cigarette, but has turned into a unpleasant environment for visitors.
Visitors to the public entrance coming to see loved ones or add funds to their accounts are walking through an increasingly toxic environment. The regular patrons come from the Second Avenue commons to get food, drinks, clothing and even rolled cigarettes from a dedicated volunteer. Recently there was an overdose in the middle area requiring paramedics. Another week there were three separate fights in front of the public entrance on the same day requiring police intervention. Family members coming to the facility expressed concerns traveling through this area with children to the due to the environment at the entrance.
These services without appropriate oversight create havoc, risk of injury and increased stress for everyone involved. What happens in front of the jail is a critical starting point for families visiting the jail, and it is all our responsibility to maintain this area to be a safe and a welcoming environment.
Services for those in need are vital. These services no longer benefit those released into society. The event should be moved toward those who are served best near the Second Avenue commons.
Brian Englert
East McKeesport
The writer is president of the Allegheny County Prison Employees Independent Union.