Press Release: Podcast Highlights Controversial Response to Drug Use at Dauphin County Prison
Harrisburg, PA – The latest episode of the acclaimed podcast series "Death County, Pa." unveils troubling conditions in the Dauphin County Prison, where an escalating crisis led officials to turn off lights and heating in the facility’s bottom floor for 17 days. This drastic measure aimed to combat rampant synthetic marijuana use among inmates, which authorities believe was exacerbated by contraband smuggled in by staff.
The move to cut off power during the frigid December temperatures has drawn sharp criticism. Inmates describe the experience as psychologically damaging, with one asserting, “What do you do? You sit there in your head all day… I think they were just using it as a tool to make us suffer.” These harsh conditions occur amidst a backdrop of rising tensions in a facility plagued by 19 suspicious deaths between 2019 and 2024.
Despite attempts to control the inflow of contraband—including seizing iPads, legal documents, and clothing—smoke-filled cells remained a common sight, signaling the extent of the drug crisis within the prison walls. The prison’s grim atmosphere raises pressing questions about the mental health of inmates and the effectiveness of institutional responses to addiction issues.
"Death County, Pa.," co-produced by PennLive and Wondery, has quickly gained traction, reaching the top of Apple’s charts shortly after its release. Weekly episodes shed light on the systemic challenges facing the prison and reflect a growing movement among local leaders advocating for reform and accountability.
For more updates, tune in to “Death County, Pa.” as it continues to explore these pressing issues affecting inmates and the broader community.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
