March 11, 2026 -- An individual with more than 30 years of law enforcement experience in corrections and parole has been named Director of Community Corrections Lackawanna County.

Jason D. Westgate was appointed to the position by Commissioners Thom Welby, Bill Gaughan and Chris Chermak. He started the job on March 3.

“Jason is the perfect fit for the Community Corrections position. His background is truly impressive, bringing a wealth of knowledge that will serve the county well and be of great assistance to our other departments. His state, military and local contacts are an added plus for the county,” said Commissioner Welby.

"Ensuring the safety and stability of our communities is one of the county's most important responsibilities. Jason brings decades of experience in corrections, law enforcement and professional training that will greatly benefit our Community Corrections program. We are pleased to welcome someone with his depth of experience and dedication to public service to our team," noted Commissioner Gaughan.

“Jason has pretty much experienced it all in the law enforcement world and the military. His supervisory and training background will be of tremendous benefit to both our staff and those in our work release center who are attempting to learn from their past issues and assimilate back into everyday society,” explained Commissioner Chermak.

"I’m honored to serve as the Director of Community Corrections for Lackawanna County. I look forward to working with county leadership, the courts and community partners to enhance public safety and build a more effective and efficient community corrections program," stated Westgate.

Westgate began his career by serving his country for four years in the U.S. Marine Corps as a military police officer and provided security for naval special weapons.

Upon discharge, Westgate worked for SCI – Waymart as a corrections officer, handling inmate supervision, security operations and staff training.

From 2003 until 2009, he was a full-time police officer for the City of Scranton, with responsibilities for parole, investigations, arrests and general emergencies. Westgate also was involved in the creation of the Neighborhood Watch Program for the Pinebrook section of the city.

In August of 2010, he began a 15-year career with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections as a Parole Agent. He was a field supervisor, handled training compliance, implemented an offender transport program and served on the U.S. Marshalls Task Force.

Westgate graduated from Marywood University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and resides in Olyphant. His current salary is $65,792.