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At Least 12 Correction Officers Nabbed In Contraband Sweep On Rikers Island
By
Christopher Robbins
Published Jun 23, 2014
Modified Jun 23, 2014
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By
Christopher Robbins
Published Jun 23, 2014
Modified Jun 23, 2014
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In response to mounting allegations of abuse and corruption perpetrated by Correction officers on Rikers Island, the DOC and the DOI conducted an "unprecedented joint, tactical search" earlier today that included 75 different locations at the facility, and a mass search of Correction officers who were changing shifts. "That investigation has already resulted in more than a dozen Correction Officers referred for prosecution on an array of charges," a joint release from the DOC and DOI states. "Additional referrals and arrests are anticipated."
The release states, "This massive operation was necessitated by information developed during DOI’s ongoing investigation of violence and other illegal conduct on Rikers Island."
The Times reported in March that the use of force by Correction officers against prisoners on Rikers had risen 240% over the last decade, and several high-profile deaths of prisoners have forced the City to take a position of speedy reform. Mayor Bill de Blasio appointed reformer Joseph Ponte as DOC Commissioner, a move that was loudly opposed by the Correction Officers' Benevolent Association.
The press agent from the Correction Officers' Benevolent Association told us that their statement on the raid is forthcoming.
Tagged
department of correction
department of investigation
Rikers Island
Christopher Robbins
Christopher Robbins is a New York City reporter covering transportation, affordable housing, local politics, and criminal justice. His work has also appeared in New York Magazine, The Village Voice and The New York Times. Chris is a graduate of Patrick Henry High School in Roanoke, Virginia, and enjoys biking to Fort Tilden in the summertime.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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