Drug overdoses are continuing to rise inside New York state prisons, with a recent cluster of incidents at Elmira Correctional Facility sending multiple inmates to the hospital.
A new report says 10 inmates at the maximum-security prison were administered Narcan and transported to Arnot Ogden Medical Center after becoming unresponsive due to suspected drug use. The incidents span several months and highlight what officials describe as a growing problem with illegal drugs entering state correctional facilities.
Four inmates found unresponsive near gym showers
The first set of overdoses happened at the end of August. Four inmates were found unresponsive on the floor near the gym shower area at Elmira.
All four were taken to the facility’s infirmary, where staff administered Narcan. Three became partially responsive. The fourth inmate did not respond after two doses and remained unresponsive. All four were then transported by ambulance to Arnot Ogden Medical Center for further treatment.
Six more overdoses in December
Additional overdoses occurred between December 4 and December 27. During that period, six inmates were found unresponsive in different areas of the prison.
Each inmate was taken to the infirmary and treated with Narcan. Two required three doses before becoming responsive, while another needed four doses. All six were transported to Arnot Ogden Medical Center, where they recovered and were later returned to the facility.
Officials say drug source still unknown
The specific substance involved in the overdoses has not been identified. However, the report says the incidents reflect an alarming and ongoing trend of contraband drugs entering state prisons.
Kenny Gold, Western Region vice president, credited correction officers for their rapid response.
“Correction officers are credited with responding quickly and professionally in each incident,” Gold said, noting that their actions and medical training were critical in preventing potentially fatal outcomes.
Gold also warned that repeated overdose responses affect surrounding communities by placing additional strain on local emergency services, including ambulance crews that must respond to prisons instead of calls in nearby towns and villages.
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