Hazleton Area Law Enforcement Spotlight Local Crime Trends, Prevention Strategies at Public Hearing

HAZLETON - Rep. Dane Watro (R-116) and Sen. Dave Argall (R-29) led a public hearing on crime trends and strategies to improve public safety today which featured updates from Hazleton area law enforcement officials. While much work remains ahead, most testifiers noted crime rates in the area were declining and below the national average.

"One message came through loud and clear today: Successful efforts to prevent and reduce crime start with strong community partnerships," Argall said. "I look forward to working with everyone who joined us here today to continue strengthening local efforts to make the Hazleton area a safer place to live."

Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce noted a vast reduction in local fentanyl cases and overdose deaths, as well as a remarkably low number of homicides in the county so far this year. Hazleton Police Chief Brian Schoonmaker reported property crime has declined in the city, while violent crime is relatively stable, but below the national average. He noted addressing root causes could continue to improve crime rates, pointing to fixing blighted properties and improving lighting as positive steps forward. He also encouraged Hazleton residents to lock vehicles, report suspicious activity, join neighborhood watch efforts and learn to recognize common scams.

Watro and Argall congratulated newly appointed Luzerne County Sheriff Genesis C. Arias, the first woman sheriff in Luzerne County and first Hispanic woman sheriff in Pennsylvania. Arias reviewed the duties of her office and challenges she anticipates in the new role.

Hazleton Area School District Chief of Police Daniel Gentile noted there has been a major decline in school violence over the last three years, which he attributed to proactive policing, strengthened threat assessment, improved security procedures and strong partnerships with local law enforcement.

Hazleton Integration Project Executive Director Rossanna Gabriel called for strengthening partnerships to address the root causes of crime through education, mentoring, recreation and family support. She shared how the Hazleton Integration Project contributes to these efforts through their afterschool programs, Eradicating Food Insecurity Initiative and more.

Video of the full public hearing and written testimony is available on the Senate Majority Policy Committee website.