Why New York correction officers are striking

Corrections Officers Strike at Upstate New york Facilities Over Safety Concerns and Staffing Shortages

corrections officers at more than two dozen facilities in upstate New York initiated unsanctioned strikes and protests this week, citing recent staff assaults and ongoing staffing concerns. The New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) has stated that the officers are demanding improved working conditions, specifically addressing staffing levels and ensuring the safety of prison personnel.

A Surge in Assaults and a Warning Sign

These protests follow a series of concerning incidents,including a recent lockdown at Collins Correctional facility in Erie County after an incident resulted in three staff injuries. The situation has escalated the issue of staff safety, with alarming data revealing the extent of violence directed at prison workers.Data indicates that as November, 630 assaults on staff have resulted in minor injuries, 48 have caused moderate injuries, and 11 have resulted in serious injuries.

Acknowledging the Crisis: State Memo Highlights staffing Shortages

The severity of the staffing crisis is also acknowledged within the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS). In a February 10th internal memo, DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello addressed the issue head-on. “We continue to have critical vacancies throughout the Department, particularly with the position of Correction Officer,” he stated. “While some of our recruitment strategies, such as regional hiring, have begun to see some positive results, we have reached a point where we need to conduct a complete review of each and every post on our plot plan, as well as any posts that are filled on a temporary basis and really redefine how we conduct business.”

Commissioner Martuscello further highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating, “the broader community is discussing that 70% of our original staffing model is the new 100%.”

The Impact of declining Incarceration rates

The current staffing shortages are partly attributed to a significant decline in New York’s prison population. According to DOCCS data, as 1999, the state has witnessed a 54% reduction in incarcerated individuals, dropping from a peak of 72,649 in 1999 to 33,594 in 2024. Consequently,New York has closed 26 correctional facilities and eliminated over 15,000 prison beds since 2011,resulting in substantial cost savings of approximately $492 million annually.

While the incarcerated population has diminished by 54%, the number of staff at New York prisons has decreased by 37%. At the end of 2024, there were 14,095 corrections officers, sergeants, and lieutenants compared to 21,068 two decades ago.

Unsanctioned Protests: A Stand Against Challenging Conditions

The ongoing strike actions are not officially sanctioned by NYSCOPBA, as the state’s Taylor Law prohibits public employees from striking. However, the determination of these officers to voice their concerns about working conditions and safety underscores the magnitude of the challenges they face daily.

Ensuring Safety and Stability: A Call for Action

The recent protests and underlying issues underscore the urgent need for complete solutions to address the staffing crisis and improve safety within New York’s correctional facilities. Policymakers, correctional administrators, and labor organizations must collaborate to develop effective strategies that prioritize the well-being of both prison staff and the incarcerated population. This requires addressing root causes, ensuring adequate staffing levels, providing necessary training and support to officers, and fostering a culture of safety and respect within correctional environments.

Given the alarming rate of assaults on staff, how effective are the current security measures in place in New York’s prisons?

Addressing Safety Concerns and Staffing Shortages in New York’s Prisons

An Archyde Exclusive Interview with Michael Hamilton, NYSCOPBA Vice President

The ongoing protests by corrections officers across upstate New York shine a spotlight on the critical issues they face daily. Archyde sat down with Michael Hamilton,Vice President of the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA),to discuss the staffing crisis,safety concerns,and the path towards resolution.

The Rising Tide of Violence

Archyde: Michael, the recent protests follow a series of staff assaults. Can you elaborate on the current state of staff safety in New York’s prisons?

Michael Hamilton:Unfortunately, it’s dire. By november, we’ve seen over 700 assaults on staff, with a meaningful number resulting in serious injuries. The incidents at Collins Correctional facility are just the tip of the iceberg. Our officers are literally on the frontlines, facing hazardous situations every day.

Staffing Shortages: The Hidden Crisis

Archyde:addressing staffing shortages has been a recurrent theme. How severe is the situation, and what’s causing it?

Michael Hamilton:The staffing crisis is as severe as it gets. According to DOCCS data, we’ve lost over 6,900 positions as 2011.While the incarcerated population has reduced by 54%, our numbers have decreased by only 37%. This means we’re doing more with less, putting both officers and inmates at risk.

The decline in incarceration rates and facility closures have contributed to this, but so have years of understaffing and inadequate recruitment. We’re appealing for a comprehensive review to address this.

Unsanctioned Protests: A Voice for the Silent Majority

Archyde:The protests are not officially sanctioned.Why have officers resorted to these unsanctioned actions?

michael Hamilton:Officers are desperate. They’ve been raising concerns about safety and staffing levels for years,but these issues have only worsened. We’ve reached a point where officers feel unheard and undervalued. They’re trying to draw attention to a crisis that’s been simmering for too long.

The Path Towards Resolution

Archyde:What steps can be taken to address these issues and ensure the safety of both staff and inmates?

Michael Hamilton:We need policymakers, correctional administrators, and labor organizations to work together. This means adequate staffing, improved recruitment and retention strategies, better training, and a cultural shift that prioritizes safety and respect. We also need to invest in infrastructure and technologies that enhance security and support officer safety.

Archyde:Thank you, Michael, for your insights.How can our readers support and stay informed about these efforts?

Michael Hamilton:We encourage readers to stay informed through our NYSCOPBA website and social media platforms. They can also reach out to their local representatives to voice their support for our cause. Together, we can pressure officials to address these critical issues and ensure the safety of our officers and the communities they serve.

in Your Words: A Call to Action

With dangerously high assault rates, severe understaffing, and an unsupportive work environment, New York’s corrections officers are crying out for a change.The question is, will we listen? Leave a comment below with your thoughts on how to address these pressing issues in our state’s correctional facilities.

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