Introduction
New rules have been introduced in New York City that aim to limit the use of isolation as a punishment for violent inmates in jails. Under the current regulations, inmates can be confined to a cell for up to 23 hours a day for a maximum of 60 consecutive days. However, the new legislation introduces “de-escalation confinement” for up to four hours following an episode of violence, with regular wellness checks by jail staff. Additionally, detainees found guilty of serious infractions can be transferred to restrictive housing for up to 60 days per year, but they cannot be isolated from shared areas for more than 10 hours daily.
Support and Opposition
The bill has garnered significant support from public defender groups, advocates for prison reform, and families of individuals who died while in custody on Rikers Island. Jumaane Williams, the city’s public advocate and the primary sponsor of the bill, has equated isolation to “torture” and emphasized the detrimental impact it has on inmates with mental health issues. However, Democratic Mayor Eric Adams, who has been striving to prevent a federal takeover of Rikers Island, has expressed opposition to the legislation. The Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association, the labor union representing jail guards, has also voiced concerns, stating that the new rules could impede their ability to protect themselves from violent detainees.
Statistics and Controversy
The Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association has revealed that even with the existing punitive segregation regulations, there have been over 6,000 instances of detainees assaulting jail guards in the past three years, including 50 cases of sexual assault. Mayor Adams, a former police captain, has already stated his intention to veto the bill. However, the city council has pledged to overturn any veto, requiring a two-thirds majority vote. The legislation was passed with 39 lawmakers in favor and seven opposed.
Fox News’ Anders Hagstrom contributed to this report.
