Judge Laura Taylor Swain criticizes jail leadership for failing to prevent violence and considers implementing a receivership.
A federal judge overseeing the troubled jails in New York City has ordered the Department of Correction leaders to collaborate with prisoner lawyers to develop a plan for an “outside person” to potentially take over the system. Judge Laura Taylor Swain has not made a final decision on this matter but wants to explore the possibility of having an external official manage the jails. The judge emphasized the need for significant improvements in safety within the jails, as previous court orders have not been effective in curbing violence and excessive force by correction officers.
The oversight of New York City’s jails came about as a result of a class-action lawsuit filed by the Legal Aid Society and prisoners, leading to a settlement that placed the jails under federal supervision nearly a decade ago. This agreement required the appointment of a court monitor to track violence and other issues within the jails. However, incidents of violence have persisted, with over 30 deaths occurring in or following incarceration in the past two years.
Rikers Island, a major correctional complex in New York City, currently detains thousands of individuals and employs a large number of correction officers. The Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association, a powerful union, represents these officers. The jails at Rikers Island have gained notoriety for being centers of chaos and violence, with many individuals, including those not yet convicted of a crime, passing through its facilities.
The court monitor has repeatedly highlighted the failure of New York City to address the dangerous conditions prevailing in the jails. Last year, the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Damian Williams, also advocated for the appointment of an external authority, referred to as a receiver, to take charge of Rikers Island.
In conclusion, the situation at New York City’s jails, particularly at Rikers Island, remains a significant concern due to ongoing violence and safety issues. The court’s recent directive for collaboration between correction officials and prisoner advocates to explore the appointment of an external overseer reflects the urgent need for substantial improvements in the management of the city’s correctional facilities.
Source: The NY Times
