Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Royce Morris swore in Lamont Jones on Friday.
The last time Lamont Jones stood in a Dauphin County courtroom, he had to defend his ability to hold public office.
But on Friday, in the same courthouse, he was officially sworn in as a Harrisburg City Council member.
“This isn’t about me; it’s for you guys,” Jones said to a room full of family and supporters during the ceremony. “I celebrate you for having the courage and willingness to look at me and say ‘this is the guy we want to represent us.’”
In May’s primary election, Jones became one of three Democratic nominees for council. In July, two city residents challenged his nomination petition, arguing that Jones’ past criminal convictions disqualified him from holding office. However, Judge Jeffrey Engle ruled in Jones’ favor, allowing him to remain in the November election, when he was elected to council.
On Friday, Jones shared that, just a week prior, he received a full pardon from the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons for his convictions, which dated back over 20 years.
“As we stand in yet another courtroom […] a room that has arguably taken so much from you, today you’ve gotten it all back,” said Ana White, a member of Jones’ campaign team.
According to Jones, he was aware that his previous felonies could impact his ability to run for office. But with the support of people like county District Attorney Fran Chardo, he decided to go for it.
“I wanted to challenge the law,” he said. “I broke the chain.”
At the swearing-in ceremony, which was officiated by Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Judge Royce Morris, several community members spoke about the role that they’ve seen Jones play in the community as a mentor and re-entry service provider.
“Today, history is being made,” said Dorothy Scott, who spoke during the ceremony. “He has faced many challenges along the way. Not only did he persevere, but he lit the way for many to follow.”
In addition to Jones, newcomer Crystal Davis will take a seat on council, as will current council President Danielle Bowers, who was re-elected in November. A council swearing-in ceremony is slated for Jan. 2 in the MLK City Government Center atrium. Following the ceremony, council will hold its reorganization meeting at 12:30 p.m. to elect a president and vice president for the new council term.
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