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Former Cumberland County District Attorney Skip Ebert Passes Away At 76

Former Cumberland County District Attorney Merle "Skip" Ebert, known for his innovative contributions to the criminal justice system, has passed away at the age of 76, officials announced on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 4:45 p.m.

Merle "Skip" Ebert

Merle "Skip" Ebert

Photo Credit: Cumberland County District Attorney's Office

Ebert, who also served as a judge, was deeply admired for his commitment to justice and reform. His legacy includes groundbreaking initiatives such as establishing investigative grand juries at the county level, creating Cumberland County’s Central Booking Center, and launching a Victim Services Division within the District Attorney's Office to support crime victims navigating the legal system.

"Skip's leadership left an indelible mark on Cumberland County," said officials from the Cumberland County District Attorney’s Office in a release. "We strive every day to fill Skip’s larger-than-life shoes."

Ebert was instrumental in the creation of the county's full-service Forensics Laboratory, one of only three accredited labs of its kind in Pennsylvania. Additionally, he founded the county’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, giving first-time offenders a chance at rehabilitation rather than punishment, and introduced Cumberland County's first drug treatment court to reduce recidivism among repeat offenders.

In a 2021 interview marking his retirement at 73, Ebert expressed his desire to pass the torch to younger leaders, encouraging them to continue improving the criminal justice system.

He is survived by his wife, Anne, and his family, as well as countless colleagues and friends who respected and loved him.

"Thank you, Skip, for your leadership," the District Attorney’s Office wrote. "Rest in peace."

Funeral arrangements have not been announced.

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