Just an hour after Bernie Cantorna was sworn in as Centre County District Attorney, Stacy Parks Miller hosted her last scheduled press conference as DA and discussed a new Grand Jury report and threw a few jabs at her successor.
Friday morning District Attorney-elect Bernie Cantorna celebrated during the swearing in ceremony at Centre County Court.
“It feels great to say it in the context of family and friends and the community here to support a change in that office,” Cantorna said.
Next door, Stacy Parks Miller discussed a Grand Jury report involving an investigation dating back to 2015.
The cases focuses on two former State College police officers, Erich Kessinger and Kenneth Ferron.
Parks Miller unveiled the suggested charges from the report — including unlawful use of a computer, unlawful duplication and obstructing administration of law.
It’s a report Parks Miller said came out this fall but she wanted to discuss it before Cantorna took office.
“Because if I just didn’t ever announce it, he wouldn’t be able to look into this box and come out and announce it. Plus I also believe he’ll refer it, he won’t handle it,” Parks Miller said.
She explained further that she believes Cantorna will refer the case and it to to the Attorney General.
Before the conference ended Parks Miller reflected on her 8 years as District Attorney.
“Our conviction rate is super high, we’ve taken on complicated cases and we’re known to win,” Parks Miller said.
And she still doesn’t think Cantorna is suited for the job.
“No, any more than a person could walk into a heart surgery without ever having been to one. But the people around him can,” Parks Miller said.
But Cantorna said he’s confident moving forward.
“It’s a day of positive change. It’s significant for my family and I. And It’s significant for our community because I think this election crossed all boundaries and it brought people together, and I intend to take that positive energy and move forward,” Cantorna said.
He added that he does plan to keep some of the staff already working in the DA’s office.
“That is the saving grace, and they will continue to fight for their community,” Parks Miller said.
“The job of the District Attorney is to protect and serve our community and when we all work together here in Centre County, we can do just that,” Cantorna said.
Moving into 2018, Parks Miller plans to continue to serve her community through a private practice. And Cantorna says he’s eager to take his seat as District Attorney and get to work.