In a decisive move to address escalating tensions within New York's correctional facilities, Governor Kathy Hochul has unveiled plans to deploy the New York National Guard.
This initiative aims to safeguard correction officers, inmates, and nearby communities following a series of disturbances at the Collins Correctional Facility in Erie County. The unrest, marked by inmates seizing control of three dormitories and assaulting three guards, has been exacerbated by ongoing staffing shortages.
As reported by Fox News, the situation at Collins Correctional Facility has been deteriorating over the past year, with numerous guards sustaining injuries at the hands of inmates. In response, Governor Hochul has instructed Daniel Martuscello, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) commissioner, along with senior administration officials, to engage with leaders from the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA).
The objective is to "call for an end to the unlawful work stoppage that is causing significant public safety concerns across New York," as stated in an official release.
Governor Hochul emphasized the urgency of resolving the issue, stating, "The illegal and unlawful actions being taken by a number of correction officers must end immediately. We will not allow these individuals to jeopardize the safety of their colleagues, incarcerated people, and the residents of communities surrounding our correctional facilities."
Should the work stoppage persist, National Guard members are set to be deployed to DOCCS facilities, with disciplinary measures to follow as deemed necessary.
In efforts to legally compel employees to resume their duties, Hochul's legal team is collaborating with the Office of the Attorney General, exploring options such as the Taylor Law. Commissioner Martuscello expressed concern over the impact of the strike, noting, "This illegal job action involving NYSCOPBA members is causing irreparable harm to the operations of the department and jeopardizing the safety and security of their co-workers within these facilities." He reiterated the need for strategic solutions to reduce assaults and bolster staffing levels.
Despite the current discord, progress has been made in recent months to enhance working conditions for corrections officers. In March 2024, a collective bargaining agreement was reached, offering benefits such as increased salaries, location-based pay adjustments, hazardous duty pay enhancements, and fully-paid parental leave. These measures reflect a concerted effort to address the challenges faced by correctional staff.
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