No Justice For All

Steve Austin, a facilitator of Philadelphia's participatory defense program, talks about tapping the resources of the community that knows defendants.

In Philadelphia, A Community-Based Program Teaches Defendants How To Help Themselves

Annette John-Hall

It was an early autumn afternoon in 1975 — a moment that Steve Austin wishes he could take back.Recalling that day recently, Austin took a deep breath, as…

The Blair County Courthouse sits on Allegheny Street in Hollidaysburg, PA.

Crime and Law Enforcement

With Private Money Fueling Fight Against Drug Crime In Blair County, Public Defenders Feel Squeezed

Min Xian

Michael Fiore, 56, remembered, growing up, he never had to worry about drugs in his neighborhood or the violence that they sometimes inflict. He said,…

Shawnray Byrd has been represented by the Allegheny County Public Defenders Office four times since 2001.

Crime and Law Enforcement

Decades After Landmark Lawsuit, Caseload Concerns Continue In Allegheny County’s Public Defender Off

On a humid summer day, Shawnray Byrd works a new job renovating a home just outside Pittsburgh. During a break, he says he’s grateful to be employed and…

Pennsylvania Sen. Stewart Greenleaf, one of the most prominent voices for reforming Pennsylvania's public defense system, in his office in Montgomery County.

Crime and Law Enforcement

Despite Outlier Status, Pa. Lawmakers Don’t Make Public Defense A Priority

Katie Meyer | WHYY

If you hunt hard enough around Harrisburg, it is possible to find lawmakers who are on board with allocating state money for the public defense of the…

Crystal Weimer was arrested in 2004 for third degree murder, a crime she didn’t commit. She spent nearly 12 years in prison and was exonerated on June 27, 2016, and all charges were dropped with prejudice.

Crime and Law Enforcement

Wrongful Murder Conviction Points To Systemic Problems With Public Defense In Pennsylvania

Emily Previti

Crystal Weimer’s nightmare began in 2004, when she was arrested for a crime she didn’t commit.“When you go to jail, your whole family goes to jail,”…