Courtesy of Erie’s Black Wall Street
Following the not guilty verdict in the trial of former Pennsylvania state parole agent Kevin Seelinger, Erie’s Black Wall Street released a lengthy statement expressing support for the family of Marchello Woodard while calling for continued efforts toward criminal justice reform and community investment.
The organization said that while the verdict brings the legal proceedings to a close, it does not lessen the loss felt by Woodard’s family, friends, and community members.
“The not guilty verdict in the death of Marchello Woodard may bring the legal proceedings in this case to a conclusion, but it does not bring Marchello home,” the statement read.
The group extended its support to Woodard’s children, family, and friends, noting that they will continue to carry the impact of his death long after public attention fades.
Erie’s Black Wall Street also emphasized that discussions about court rulings and public policy should not overshadow the personal toll the case has had on those closest to Woodard.
The organization argued that parole and community supervision should serve not only as a form of accountability but also as a means to help individuals successfully return to their families, workplaces, and communities.
The statement urged community members to focus on addressing root causes of violence and instability, including poverty, trauma, mental health challenges, lack of opportunity, and neighborhood disinvestment.
“If Erie truly wants safer neighborhoods, then we must become as serious about preventing violence and instability as we are about responding to them after they occur,” the statement said.
The organization called for sustained investments in education, housing, mental health services, economic opportunity, neighborhood stability, reentry programs, and trusted community institutions.
“Community investment is not separate from public safety. Community investment is public safety,” the statement continued.
Erie’s Black Wall Street also acknowledged the anger, grief, and frustration many residents are feeling following the verdict but encouraged the community to channel those emotions into action.
“Marchello Woodard’s life cannot be restored. His children cannot be given back the time they have lost with their father. His family cannot simply move beyond what happened because a verdict has been announced,” the statement read.
The organization concluded by urging residents to continue advocating for positive change while supporting one another, saying the responsibility to build a stronger community remains even after the trial has ended.
“The courtroom has spoken,” the statement concluded. “Our responsibility as a community is just beginning.”
The full statement can be read online here.