On Monday, New York officials dismissed over 2,000 prison guards who did not return to work after a lengthy strike. The strike lasted 22 days and was deemed illegal under state law. The state announced that enough correctional officers had resumed duty, allowing them to declare an end to the strike.
Corrections Commissioner Daniel Martuscello confirmed the end of the strike during a virtual press conference, highlighting that a new agreement with the guards’ union had been reached over the weekend. However, the deal relied on at least 85% of the staff returning by Monday morning, a target that wasn’t achieved. Despite this, the state promised to honor some terms of the agreement, particularly regarding overtime work.
The National Guard has been deployed to support remaining staff in prisons, as many officers continue to be absent. Before the strike, New York had about 13,500 security staff available. Now, that number has dropped to around 10,000.
Martuscello stated that termination letters were sent to all officers who stayed on strike without approved medical leave and failed to return by the 6:45 a.m. deadline on Monday. This action followed a walkout that began on February 17, when guards voiced their frustrations over working conditions. The strike has led to complaints about worsening conditions for inmates.
With the labor action over, serious concerns remain. A special investigation is underway regarding the death of 22-year-old inmate Messiah Nantwi, who died at the Mid-State Correctional Facility. Witnesses reported that he was beaten by correctional officers. Fifteen staff members have been placed on administrative leave as part of the inquiry. The attorney general’s office has indicated possible involvement of nine officers in this tragic incident.
The ongoing situation in New York’s prisons raises critical issues about safety and treatment for both the inmates and the staff. As the state moves forward, they will reassess policies, including the use of solitary confinement, to ensure safety for everyone involved.
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