ERIE, PA — Democratic nominee for Erie County Executive Christina Vogel condemned Brenton Davis for authorizing the release of inmates for work without required court approval or consultation with the District Attorney’s Office — a move that bypassed the law, ignored victims’ rights, and further eroded public trust in county government.

According to reporting by the Erie Times-News, the Davis Administration allowed ten inmates to leave the Erie County Prison on work assignments. No judge approved the releases, no prosecutor reviewed the cases, and no victims were notified — all clear violations of established procedure. Both District Attorney Elizabeth Hirz and the Erie County Court of Common Pleas confirmed they were never informed about the program.

“This wasn’t a misunderstanding, it was a complete sidestep of the law,” said Vogel. “Failing to notify victims isn’t just negligent, it’s a betrayal of the very people our justice system is meant to protect,” Vogel said. “I fully support work release and rehabilitation programs when they’re done the right way — with court approval, victim notification, and proper oversight.”

The incident is the latest in a series of troubling actions by the Davis Administration that show a consistent pattern of bypassing rules and oversight.

“Brenton Davis has made a habit of ignoring process, transparency, and accountability,” said Christina Vogel. “Erie County deserves a leader who respects the law, honors victims’ rights, and restores integrity to county government — not one who believes the rules don’t apply to him.”

Please contact Jarrett Brown, Campaign Manager, for follow up questions or interview availability: jarrett@christinavogel.com // 412-660-6348