New York DOCS reviews practices amid calls for reform and community engagement

On May 14, 2025, the New York State Legislature convened to address critical issues surrounding the safety of individuals in custody, transparency, and accountability within state correctional facilities. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for cultural change within the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) and the importance of independent reviews to ensure the safety and rights of incarcerated individuals.

A significant focus of the discussions was the ongoing independent review commissioned by DOCCS, which aims to assess current practices and identify safety gaps. Stakeholders emphasized the necessity for the review to include direct engagement with incarcerated individuals and their families, as well as corrections officers. This grassroots approach is seen as vital for understanding the underlying cultural issues that contribute to safety concerns within facilities.

Participants expressed frustration over the lack of accessible data regarding the use of force and grievances against corrections officers. Advocates called for DOCCS to maintain comprehensive records that could be easily analyzed to identify patterns of excessive force or misconduct. The absence of such data has hindered efforts to hold individuals accountable and improve conditions within the facilities.

The meeting also touched on the controversial HALT (Humane Alternatives to Long-Term Solitary Confinement) legislation, with panelists largely rejecting claims that the law has led to increased violence in correctional facilities. They argued that many successful correctional systems worldwide do not rely on isolation practices and still maintain lower levels of violence. This assertion underscores the need for a reevaluation of current practices and the implementation of reforms that prioritize rehabilitation over punishment.

Concerns were raised regarding the communication of critical information to families, particularly in cases of deaths within the facilities. Testimonies indicated that families often face delays and a lack of transparency when seeking information about their loved ones, further exacerbating their distress during difficult times.

The panelists unanimously agreed on the necessity for increased oversight and transparency as foundational reforms. They advocated for independent investigations into staff abuse and the implementation of unannounced visits by oversight bodies to ensure accountability. The urgency of these reforms was underscored by the recognition that without proper oversight, systemic issues will persist, undermining the safety and rights of those incarcerated.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a crucial platform for stakeholders to voice their concerns and propose actionable reforms aimed at improving the conditions within New York's correctional facilities. As the independent review progresses, the insights gathered from this meeting will be instrumental in shaping future policies and ensuring that the rights and safety of incarcerated individuals are prioritized. The anticipated report from DOCCS this summer is expected to set the stage for significant changes in the state's correctional system.