Short summary for now. The year was 1976. I was in business for two years. A lot happened during those two years. Many things such as a mysterious fire, in 1974, destroying subpoenaed government records the day before they were to be surrendered. (At that time I was still in the military reserve besides operating a business.) In the summer of 1975, Eugene came to my business to warn me. During that time the Berwick Power Plant was under construction. The connection? That will be posted soon. That day Eugene had a relative with him, it was either his father or uncle. (After all these years I'm not sure.) We talked for a while and he left.
Shortly after the fire, certain people were arrested and convicted. Then, during the fall of 1982, when transferred to Gratersford, I had a talk with one of two men convicted of the arson. He told me who ordered the hit. (I may still have a letter he wrote that will be posted soon.)
Recently the Standard Speaker had a huge article commemorating the tragedy and local television stations aired a segment filming the ceremony of the memorial shown below. But still, the million dollar question, 25 years ago or now, has never been asked. Why would two back ally flunkies want to do in a deputy sheriff?
During this time, Hazleton was dubbed by the Philadelphia Inquirer as "Mob City". Hazleton has had its share of violence. Where to start? In the early 60's, car bombing killing the driver. Circa 1971, the home of a State Police Officer fire bombed on Locust Street, Hazleton. (I plan to list several more.)
As for Hazleton government? Well, you had two police officers running their own burglary ring. They were suspended. (I still have most of my files from when I was in business.) As I mentioned above, this is a short summary for now.
Updated: 03-11-2002