The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) has sued the state’s corrections department (DOCCS), alleging it has restricted incarcerated individuals’ First Amendment rights by limiting access to legal counsel and courts amid an ongoing correction officer strike.
The lawsuit claims the strike has worsened prison conditions, disrupting medical care and legal access, with reports of inmates missing essential medications. Seven incarcerated individuals have died since the strike began, and six officers face murder charges for a December beating death.
NYCLU and Prisoners’ Legal Services demand immediate restoration of legal communication, warning that DOCCS is violating fundamental justice rights. Despite Governor Hochul’s efforts to end the strike, many officers remain off the job, fueling concerns over prison safety and accountability.
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