Union leaders representing New York correction officers issued a vote of “no confidence” for Commissioner Daniel Martuscello III due to worsening prison conditions, including a staffing crisis and rising violence.
The tensions escalated after a fatal beating of an inmate in December, which sparked calls for prison reform. Martuscello emphasized his commitment to staff and inmate safety, dismissing the vote as political discord.
Inmates report physical abuse, while officers cite excessive overtime and unsafe work conditions. Assaults on staff have reached historic levels, and employees face increased attacks, including sexual violence.
Gov. Kathy Hochul supports Martuscello’s leadership but pledged stronger oversight measures, including expanding monitoring programs. Recruitment and retention challenges persist statewide.
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