Van Waters' Hearing Ends After 18 Days

The public hearing on the dismissal of Dr. Miriam Van Waters as head of the Massachusetts Women's Reformatory ended today as her attorney, Claude B. Cross, demanded her reinstatement.

The hearing, which has gone through 18 sessions, was held before State Correction Commissioner Eliott E. McDowell, who dismissed Dr. Van Waters on January 11. The hearing was called at Dr. Van Waters' request to give her a chance to answer the charges levelled against her.

Under State law, McDowell has three days to make his decision. If he refuses to revoke his dismissal order, Dr. Van Waters is expected to request a second hearing before an impartial three-man board to be appointed by Governor Dever. The decision of this board would be final.

Cross Sums Up

In summing up his case for the defense, Cross maintained yesterday that Dr. Van Waters' 16-year administration at the Framingham reformatory had gained her a national reputation for brilliant and progressive work in penology.