New York is facing a serious and complex correctional staffing crisis, one that demands responsibility, and thorough review of long-term solutions. This can only be achieved through an independent investigation. While I recognize the urgency of addressing understaffing within our correctional facilities, the decision to release incarcerated individuals early is not the answer. Public safety must remain our top priority, and policies that create new risks for our communities must be carefully evaluated.
There are many approaches to strengthening our correctional system, but this is not one of them. If the state needs more correction officers, we must begin by addressing the status of those who were recently terminated under questionable circumstances during the recent labor dispute. Many were long-serving professionals who want to return to service without unnecessary barriers and should be treated with the utmost respect, rather than being cast aside at a time when their experience is critically needed.
Rather than releasing incarcerated individuals before their designated release dates, some of whom may still be engaged in critical rehabilitative programming, we should be focusing on rebuilding our workforce through fair rehiring practices, improved working conditions, and transparent, independent investigations into the issues that
have led us here. New York’s correction officers have raised significant concerns about safety, staffing, and policy changes. These issues deserve solutions rooted in respect, accountability, and collaboration; not shortcuts that may place the safety of the public, facility staff, and incarcerated individuals at greater risk.
Early release of inmates, even with restrictions, increases demand on parole officers, law enforcement, and social services, at a time when those systems are already facing challenges. It also places undue pressure on communities to support individuals who may not be fully prepared for reintegration.
We need to invest in safe, secure, and well-staffed correctional institutions; not undermine them. That means retaining and rehiring qualified professionals, not asking fewer officers to manage more responsibilities and long work schedules; and certainly not turning to reactive measures that compromise the safety of both the public and all those within our facilities.
As this situation continues to evolve, I will remain committed to advocating for policies that protect our communities, support all our correctional staff members, and ensure that any changes made are implemented with transparency, oversight, and a clear focus on safety.
