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Scranton Mayor Faces Crime Surge Amid Election Battle

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti faces a crime crisis after five homicides in early 2024, surpassing last year's total.
She is challenging GOP Rep. Rob Bresnahan Jr. in a competitive district.
Cognetti says statistics show a decrease in violent incidents.
Her administration has invested millions in police resources, including vehicles and surveillance technology.
Bresnahan's campaign criticized her for downplaying gang violence and cited her absence during a community crisis.

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Story summary

Scranton Mayor Paige Cognetti faces a crime crisis after five homicides in early 2024, surpassing last year's total.
She is challenging GOP Rep. Rob Bresnahan Jr. in a competitive district.
Cognetti says statistics show a decrease in violent incidents.
Her administration has invested millions in police resources, including vehicles and surveillance technology.
Bresnahan's campaign criticized her for downplaying gang violence and cited her absence during a community crisis.