New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo released the following statement today following the exposure of corrections officers and National Guard members to an unknown substance at Mohawk Correctional Facility (a copy of Sen. Griffo’s letter to DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello is attached):
“I am concerned with the recent incident at Mohawk Correctional Facility that resulted in the exposure of five individuals – three correction officers and two National Guard members – to an unknown substance. Sadly, one individual remains in critical condition following this event.
While I recognize that DOCCS has implemented additional measures to cut down on exposure incidents, I interacted with the department today regarding this matter and am calling for an immediate shut down of contact visits at Mohawk Valley correctional facilities so that we can get a better handle on this situation.
There needs to be improved procedures and protocols in place to protect corrections officers, civilian staff and inmates. I believe we need to implement required screenings of visitors by drug-detecting dogs, mandatory body scanners and stiffer criminal penalties for those delivering dangerous materials to incarcerated individuals across the state’s prison system.
A Class A misdemeanor, which is what the person in the Mohawk incident was charged with, is not enough. Those committing these acts and putting others in danger must know that there are real and significant consequences for their actions.
I have continued to engage with DOCCS, NYSCOPBA and the Hochul administration about issues at the state’s correctional facilities and have offered solutions to address staffing and safety concerns, including repealing the HALT Act.
I will continue to work to improve conditions for everyone in the state’s correctional facilities and to implement much needed systemwide reform.”
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