Burns: ‘Push out the Pusher’ yard signs available at district offices

Lawmaker urges residents to send signal to drug dealers

EBENSBURG, June 7 – Noting that the program has resulted in almost 500 arrests since its inception four years ago, state Rep. Frank Burns is offering free “Push out the Pusher” yard signs at each of his district offices.

Burns, D-Cambria, said the campaign to eradicate illegal drugs – notably heroin and other opioids – is driven by the ability to remain anonymous by calling a toll-free tip line and the possibility of a reward of up to $8,000.

“If you’re fed up with drug dealers pushing their poison on kids, then get involved in the fight by displaying a yard sign and reporting what you see to police,” said Burns of the program that also involves Cambria County Crime Stoppers. “We need the public’s help to combat this opioid crisis, so let’s all band together, fight back and let these drug dealers know the 72nd Legislative District is not an easy place to set up shop.”

Burns, who has stood with law enforcement agency representatives and the Cambria County district attorney at prior “Push out the Pusher” events, said the actual reward amounts are determined by police and the county’s drug task force.

Burns said citizens can report illegal drug activity by calling 1-800-548-7500, or by calling their local police department.

“"The program’s been effective in helping get heroin and other dangerous illegal drugs off our streets,” Burns said, noting that at least $15,000 has been paid out so far. “I urge anyone who’s interested in joining the cause to visit one of my offices to obtain a sign.”

Additional information on getting a sign can be obtained by calling Burns’ Ebensburg office at (814) 472-8021.