A Rikers Island detainee, Anthony Jordan, died after seeking medical attention the day before his death but was sent back to his housing unit. Correctional Health Services (CHS) does not publicly disclose reports on deaths in custody, leading to concerns about accountability and needed reforms. Legislation has been proposed to make CHS findings public, but progress is slow. Jordan’s death highlights ongoing issues in the city’s correctional system, with advocates calling for reforms and increased transparency.
The recent death of a Rikers Island detainee, Anthony Jordan, has raised concerns about the handling of his health needs while in custody. Jordan, 63, was found unresponsive in the North Infirmary Command on Rikers and later pronounced dead at a hospital. He had sought medical attention the day before his death but was sent back to his housing unit.
Advocates and former insiders believe that Jordan’s death could have been prevented and point to potential mishandling of his health needs. The Correctional Health Services (CHS) oversees medical care for incarcerated individuals in the city but faces criticism for its lack of transparency in reporting deaths and holding medical staff accountable.
City Councilmember Carlina Rivera has introduced legislation to require CHS to make its findings public and for jail officials to notify the media of any deaths in city lockups. However, the bill is moving slowly through the legislative process.
Jordan had been held on Rikers since April, awaiting trial for the alleged murder of his friend. His death marks the fifth behind bars in the city this year. While corrections officers have faced discipline for failing to care for inmates who died, medical staff often escape public accountability.
The Legal Aid Society has called for a federal judge to appoint a receiver to take over the Correction Department, citing the need for meaningful reforms in the system. However, the Adams administration opposes this appointment, claiming that reforms are already underway.
Critics argue that reporting delays and lack of public reports by CHS make it challenging to identify trends and issues within the system. The Legal Aid Society continues to advocate for reforms and stricter standards for staff behavior within the Correction Department.
The situation at Rikers Island highlights the ongoing challenges within the correctional system and the need for greater transparency, accountability, and reforms to ensure the well-being of incarcerated individuals.
Source: TheCity.NYC
