Death County, PA - Episode 7: Trust Exercise

Release Date: May 27, 2025 | Host/Author: Wondery

Introduction

In the seventh episode of Death County, PA, titled "Trust Exercise", host Joshua Vaughn delves deep into the intricate web of events surrounding Dauphin County Prison (DCP). This episode uncovers the complexities of prison administration, systemic corruption, personal traumas, and the ongoing fight for justice and reform. Through candid conversations with key figures like Commissioner Justin Douglas and mayoral candidate Lamont Jones, the episode sheds light on the challenges and strides being made to transform the prison system in Dauphin County.

Board Meeting and De-escalation Commendation

The episode opens with a detailed account of a Dauphin County Prison Board meeting held on [00:25]. Unlike previous gatherings, this session was notable for its recognition of prison staff for their adept handling of a medical emergency involving an inmate.

Justin Douglas, the Prison Board Chair, commended the security and medical teams:

“Their keen attention to detail and vigilance during the CERN activation and hospital transport of a new commitment kept the situation from escalating and prevented any harm to staff or the new commitment.” ([02:10])

This commendation marked a pivotal moment, highlighting a shift towards de-escalation and mental health awareness within the prison system, a departure from past incidents often ending in violence or neglect.

Uncovering Systemic Corruption

As the narrative progresses, the episode unveils revelations of systemic corruption within Dauphin County. Justin Douglas addresses allegations against former County Commissioner Jeff Haast, who was found to have accepted substantial payments from PrimeCare, DCP's long-standing medical contractor:

“We just need to call it what it is. And it's unacceptable and there should be high account for that.” ([07:09])

Lamont Jones echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability:

“Anyone who's broken the law in order to profit off of Dauphin county should suffer the full weight of those consequences.” ([07:09])

These disclosures have sparked a rigorous investigation and a push towards transparency and accountability within the county's administration.

Impact on Commissioners and Campaigns

The fallout from the corruption scandal has significant implications for local leadership. Justin Douglas, now the chair of the commissioners, finds himself at the forefront of implementing reforms. Simultaneously, Lamont Jones is entrenched in his mayoral campaign, advocating for profound changes in the prison system. He shares his personal connection and commitment:

“I'm fighting to change the conditions.” ([05:26])

Lamont's campaign is buoyed by his grassroots support and his vow to be the first African American male mayor of Harrisburg, representing a historic shift in local politics.

Personal Traumas and the Fight for Justice

A poignant segment of the episode addresses the personal toll of the ongoing crises at DCP. Lamont Jones speaks solemnly about the loss of his cousin, Carmen, whose death underscores the urgent need for reform:

“Carmen... she probably will never be okay. She's very silent now...” ([15:41])

The family continues to seek justice, with ongoing lawsuits against corrections officers and the reinstatement of PrimeCare as a defendant, highlighting the long-lasting impacts of these tragedies on families.

Reforms and Auditing Practices

In response to the corruption and mismanagement, Justin Douglas outlines comprehensive reform strategies aimed at overhauling DCP's operations:

1. Contract Auditing:

   “We are not putting the highest amount of scrutiny on the work that they're getting paid taxpayer dollars to do.” ([17:24])

   The county has initiated an auditing process for PrimeCare, intending to evaluate their performance and ensure accountability through regular audits every three years.

2. Transparency and Trust Building:

   “We know what transparency looks like when it's healthy... you gotta earn trust.” ([18:15])

   Douglas emphasizes the necessity of transparent practices to rebuild public trust, acknowledging the deep-seated skepticism within the community.

County Coroner Graham Hetrick’s Re-election

The episode also scrutinizes County Coroner Graham Hetrick, who faces re-election amid controversies surrounding his handling of DCP cases. During a public forum, Hetrick maintained his stance on independence, yet faces growing calls for accountability. Lamont Jones expresses cautious optimism:

“Anything's possible.” ([21:04])

The outcome of this election could significantly influence the future of coroner practices and oversight in Dauphin County.

Host's Personal Experiences and Mental Health

Joshua Vaughn, the host, opens up about the emotional and psychological toll of investigating and reporting on the grim realities of DCP:

“Months of reporting on prison deaths really started getting to me. I started having panic attacks...” ([25:30])

Lamont Jones relates, highlighting the shared burden among those committed to justice:

“It's just not a job. It's just not a job.” ([27:45])

Their candid discussions underscore the human cost of uncovering and confronting systemic injustices.

Community Engagement and Future Outlook

Despite the heavy themes, the episode concludes on a note of resilience and hope. Both Justin Douglas and Lamont Jones emphasize the community's growing demand for justice and reform. They articulate a vision where collective effort and persistent advocacy can lead to meaningful changes within Dauphin County's prison system.

Lamont Jones expresses his commitment to accessibility and tangible reform as he continues his mayoral campaign:

“When we are elected, we're just going to speak that into existence.” ([22:46])

Justin Douglas reflects on the necessity of bold leadership and the potential for broader impact beyond local politics:

“We need leaders that are gonna fight...” ([23:55])

Conclusion

"Trust Exercise" is a compelling episode that navigates the intricate dynamics of power, corruption, personal loss, and the relentless pursuit of justice within Dauphin County Prison. Through in-depth interviews and personal reflections, Joshua Vaughn paints a vivid picture of a community grappling with its past while striving towards a more transparent and accountable future.

Notable Quotes:

• Joshua Vaughn ([00:25]): "That's how I joined Business as usual Today, the county commissioners have earmarked time to discuss..."

• Justin Douglas ([02:10]): “Their keen attention to detail and vigilance during the CERN activation and hospital transport...”

• Lamont Jones ([05:26]): “I know that I'm not ever disconnected from that as I'm making decisions.”

• Joshua Vaughn ([25:30]): “A couple years ago, the months and months of reporting on prison deaths really started getting to me.”

• Lamont Jones ([22:46]): “When we are elected, we're just going to speak that into existence.”

Production Credits:

• Written and Reported by: Joshua Vaughn
• Producer: Rachel Yong
• Senior Producer: Chris Siegel
• Associate Producer: Emily Locke
• Fact Checking: Annika Robbins
• Sound Design and Mixing: Jay Rothman
• Sound Supervisor: Marcelino Villalpando
• Music Supervisor: Scott Velasquez for Frison Sync
• Senior Managing Producer: Lata Pandya
• Managing Producers: Heather Baloga and Matt Gant
• Senior Development Editor: Rachel B. Doyle
• Development Producer: Olivia Weber
• Executive Producers for Advanced Local: Richard Diamond and Selena Roberts
• Executive Producers: N'Hy'jeri Eaton, George Lavender, Marshall Louie, and Jen Sargent

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