PA Department of Corrections

The official Twitter account for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Meet the #PrisonPups in the PAWS Program at SCI Forest!

Since 2012, the program has helped train rescue dogs while giving inmate handlers the chance to build responsibility, patience, and life skills. Dogs receive obedience training, socialization, and preparation for adoption—and in some cases, future roles as emotional support, therapy, or service dogs.

The program includes five primary and four secondary handlers, with dogs provided through Tri-county Animal Rescue. Handlers are trained by Paul Anthony of Champion Canine and work with each dog based on its personality and needs.

SCI Forest currently has five dogs in the program: Arti, a sweet and playful pup with an approved adoption; Chris, a curious and energetic lab mix puppy; Cooper, an active shepherd mix who loves snow and would do best in a cat-free home; Barret, a calm 7‑year‑old shepherd mix who prefers being the only pet; and Joy, a happy and adventurous lab mix puppy.

An inmate handler shared: “This program has taught me responsibility, patience, love, and caring while helping me develop new life skills and a greater respect for animals.”

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Corrections Employees Week took place during the first week of May, but we're still recognizing the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our staff members with these highlights from SCI Forest and Pittsburgh CCC.

SCI Forest’s Food Service and the Employee Association coordinated a week featuring themed meals, raffles, and merchandise sales. The festivities continued beyond Corrections Employees Week with hoagie day, offering discounted meals and membership opportunities for the Employee Association, and a combined picnic day and carnival day, giving staff additional opportunities to connect and celebrate.

Meanwhile at Pittsburgh CCC, staff members participated in a week of themed celebrations and recognition activities, including sports day, neon day with a Taco Tuesday bar, rock and roll day, Hawaiian day with a themed luncheon, and tie-dye day. The celebration also included fun contests such as a candy contest and a pet contest, with CC1 Liz Fazzini recognized as the candy contest winner.

These events served as a meaningful way to recognize the dedicated professionals whose hard work, commitment, and service help keep our facilities operating each day.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

The Social Work Department at SCI Greene recently hosted a Prison Reform event in the Activities Department, bringing together approximately 100 inmates for discussions focused on clemency, reentry, responsibility, and accountability.

Guest speakers Donnell Drinks, a former juvenile lifer from Philadelphia and advocate for criminal justice reform and community mentorship, and Celeste Trusty, a dedicated criminal justice reform advocate, shared their experiences and insights to encourage positive change and successful reentry.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Staff wellness and engagement were highlighted at SCI Coal Township last year through a Virtual 5K initiative benefiting employee wellness efforts and breakroom improvements. Participants were able to run or walk their 5K at any time during October 2025, tracking their progress using a free app. Prizes were awarded for fastest times, and the Wellness Committee was able to use the momentum to support meaningful upgrades to the staff lounge.

SCI Coal Township challenged Central Office to a Spring Virtual 5K in March 2026, following Coal Township’s strong participation earlier in the year. Both teams went head‑to‑head, with Central Office also seeing impressive turnout. Staff members at each location encouraged involvement through optional group walks for those completing the 5K at a relaxed pace, while competitive participants focused on fastest times and total miles logged. SCI Coal Township even created a banner for its Wellness Committee to display at events.

The Virtual 5K has since grown into a successful wellness model being shared across facilities, with SCI Pine Grove currently hosting its own event and seeing strong participation among staff members.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Chester District Office recently held the first meeting of its Parole & Reentry Book Club under the Next Chapter Initiative, with four participants in attendance.

The group was introduced to The Master Plan by Chris Wilson, along with a short video from the author highlighting the importance of education, discipline, and long-term personal growth after incarceration.

The session focused on identity, accountability, communication, and goal setting. Participants also engaged in reflection exercises and group discussions centered on second chances, personal growth, and rebuilding their narratives as they work toward a positive future.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

SCI Dallas recently hosted SCI Waymart for the local Empowerment Committee Symposium, bringing together 30 staff members for a day focused on professional development, mentorship, and personal growth.

This year’s theme, Developing Your Future, reflected the symposium’s mission to support employee growth and recognize workplace diversity across the PADOC. The event featured presentations on CISM, shadowing, mentoring, workplace culture, and leadership, along with a catered lunch, networking, trivia, and prize raffles.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Congratulations to Drug and Alcohol Treatment Manager Bernie Comiskey at SCI Camp Hill, who was recently recognized by Sec. Dr. Laurel Harry for 37 years of faithful and distinguished service!

Comiskey began his career at SCI Camp Hill in March 1989 and was employed at the institution during the Camp Hill riots later that same year. In the aftermath of this pivotal event, he remained committed to his service and continued to grow within the Department.

Throughout his career, Comiskey advanced through multiple roles, ultimately serving 18 years as Drug and Alcohol Treatment Manager, where he helped the institution and the Department rebuild and grow following the riots. His firsthand experience, leadership, and mentorship helped shape a culture of resilience and professionalism across all levels of staff. He also served as the institution’s Mentoring Coordinator, making a lasting impact through his guidance and support of both staff members and incarcerated individuals.

We extend our sincere appreciation and wish you all the best in your retirement!

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

SCI Phoenix celebrated its annual Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony on May 20, recognizing the individuals whose dedication, compassion, and service make a meaningful impact on the facility.

Sec. Dr. Laurel Harry, EDS Michael Wenerowicz, and RDS Morris Houser joined staff members and volunteers for an evening of recognition and appreciation. The program featured musical selections by the Florence Phillips Music Class, remarks from Supt. Joseph Terra, recognition of executive staff members and program contributors, special volunteer awards, and door prize drawings.

Wayne Battle was honored with the Volunteer of the Year Award, while Kurt Eberle received the Volunteer Service Award in recognition of more than 40 years of dedicated service.

During the banquet, attending volunteers were entered into a drawing for beautiful paintings created by incarcerated artists who work alongside them.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Congratulations to Corrections Officers Christopher Adamson and Dylan Lukashewski at SCI Dallas who were presented with a well-deserved Letter of Commendation for their heroic actions!

On March 29, Officer Adamson and Officer Lukashewski, responded to a serious automobile accident involving a fellow staff member. Upon arriving at the scene, they quickly assessed the situation and, despite the presence of leaking fluids and a small fire beneath the severely damaged vehicle, worked together to assist in safely removing the injured individual from the car. Their swift actions and strong situational awareness helped ensure the safety of those involved until emergency responders arrived.

Thank you for your dedication and professionalism. We’re incredibly proud to have you both on our team!

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Looking for your next career move? Stop by the SCI Huntingdon and SCI Smithfield joint job fair and connect with PADOC recruiters to discover the wide range of opportunities in corrections!

📆June 9
⏰12-6 PM
📍 SCI Huntingdon, 1100 Pike St, Huntingdon, PA 16654

Swing by, ask questions, and see what a career in corrections is all about ⤵

https://t.co/7HnkRwsg2K

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Throughout Mental Health Awareness Month, staff across our facilities came together to support mental wellness and raise awareness about the importance of mental health.

At SCI Fayette, staff members wore green to show their support and help spark conversations about mental health. The Harrisburg District Office also participated in awareness activities throughout the month, including a Mental Health & Muffins event organized by Parole Agent Lexi Gilbert. The event provided an opportunity for staff to connect, learn about available resources, and discuss the importance of overall well-being. Employees were also encouraged to explore the SEAP benefits available to state employees.

Taking care of our mental health is just as important as caring for our physical health. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped promote awareness, support, and understanding throughout the month.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

PADOC Drug Interdiction Unit Sergeant Bickel and K9 Dublin recently assisted with the search of suspicious incoming legal mail at the Clinton County Correctional Facility.

Staff members hid the mail in a conference room before the team arrived, but K9 Dublin found it immediately and alerted to the presence of drugs. The package was taken to the PSP Lamar Barracks, where a warrant was obtained to open it. Inside were nine sheets of legal mail that had been saturated with liquid cocaine.

Nice work, Sgt. Bickel and K9 Dublin!

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Keeping a facility running takes skill, teamwork, and dedication.

Utility Plant Operators play a vital role behind the scenes by maintaining the systems that keep operations moving safely and efficiently.

Hear directly from our staff about what makes this career rewarding.

Explore a career with stability, competitive pay, and advancement, take the next step and apply to serve in one of these opportunities:

Corrections Utility Plant Operator, SCI Fayette ➡️
https://t.co/cIXlHSnQ0P

Corrections Utility Plant Operator, SCI Frackville ➡️
https://t.co/y6hh81fbuB

For more career opportunities, visit: https://t.co/D18WPqMqnH

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

The SCI Cambridge Springs Honor Guard recently participated in Memorial Day ceremonies hosted by American Legion Post 381 in Cambridge Springs and VFW Post 169 in Venango. In Cambridge Springs, the observance included a small parade through town followed by a ceremony at Marcy Park.

At the Venango Memorial Day Ceremony, CFMM1 Greg Merritt, Commander of VFW Post 169, led the ceremony, and Parole Agent Marnie Hindle served as the guest speaker.

Parole Agent Hindle served on active duty during Operation Desert Shield, earning the Southwest Asia Service Medal, and later continued her service in the Active Reserves. She joined the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania with the Department of Human Services before becoming a field parole agent with the Pennsylvania Parole Board and now serves as the Reentry Parole Agent at SCI Cambridge Springs.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

We’ve seen plenty of memorable moments across our facilities, but recently at Erie CCC, staff members helped reunite a very special family: 13 ducklings and their mother.

After the ducklings fell into a storm drain in the parking lot, CCCM Daniel Haffley, CCCM Nicholas Gardner, and an Erie CCC reentrant quickly responded. Working together, they carefully rescued each duckling while the mother duck remained nearby throughout the effort.

Thanks to their quick action, the family was safely reunited and, on their way, a simple moment that reflects the compassion, teamwork, and care our staff members bring every day. 🦆

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

Get an inside look at the Senior Life Enhancement Program (SLEP) at SCI Waymart, where older adults in custody build connection, purpose, and community through age-responsive programming.

Established in 2023, the Senior Center at SCI Waymart, also known as the Older Gents (OG) Lounge, is a dedicated space for individuals aged 50 and older to participate in activities, workshops, and peer-led programming focused on teamwork, skill-building, and positive engagement. A key feature is the SLEP Inmate Committee, which allows residents to help plan and coordinate activities.

Across the PADOC, SLEPs support the needs of older adults in custody. With more than 11,000 individuals statewide, these programs provide structured, peer-driven environments focused on engagement and reentry preparation. First developed at SCI Chester, SLEPs now operate in 11 facilities, with additional units in development.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

SCI Frackville staff members recently participated in a presentation highlighting the institution’s Special Teams.

The event showcased the dedicated teams that help keep the facility strong, safe, and prepared to respond to a variety of situations. The team had the opportunity to learn more about the roles and responsibilities of CERT, FERT, HRT, HNT, and CISM, as well as the training and teamwork required to support daily operations and emergency response efforts at the institution.

[PA Department of Corrections @CorrectionsPA]

SCI Waymart recently hosted Assistant Vice President/Branch Manager Craig Grimm from Wayne Bank, as part of Financial Literacy Month. He spoke with individuals in the outside housing unit about banking and key financial concepts.

Participants asked questions about co-signers for loans and credit cards, as well as how long negative information remains on a credit report. They also learned that parole status alone does not prevent consideration for a mortgage, with other financial factors playing a larger role.