News  Probationers sentenced to perform community service assist with statewide snow and ice removal

Probationers--sentenced to participate in the Massachusetts Trial Court Community Service Program—are assisting municipalities, schools, community organizations, Community Corrections Centers, and courthouses across the Commonwealth with removing snow, scraping ice, and spreading rock salt during today’s snowfall which will end with a wintry mix of sleet, snow, and rain, according to weather forecasters. The Bay State’s “second significant storm,” as defined by the National Weather Service, is expected to cause slippery conditions that will impact the evening commute. An arctic blast will follow on Wednesday evening that is expected to cause icy conditions.

Community Service Statewide Supervisor David Skocik said probationers performed 2,322 hours of community service by removing snow and ice during fiscal year 2019. The probationers also removed snow and ice from the stairs, walkways, and ramps of senior centers, schools, churches, food pantries as well as along trail maps, crosswalks, fire hydrants, and vehicles. Approximately 580 probationers participated in this effort.

“Snow and ice removal provides accessibility to the buildings and the services that are offered through these agencies, schools, and government agencies.  Because snow and ice are also a potential safety issue, it is important to clear it immediately,” Skocik said.