NEW YORK — In response to a wildcat strike by corrections workers, Governor Kathy Hochul has called in National Guard troops to secure state-run prisons. As of Wednesday morning, corrections officers were reported to be picketing and striking at approximately 30 state facilities, according to union representatives.
The deployment of the National Guard was announced by Hochul on Wednesday, although the specific locations were not disclosed initially. In a video message, she stated, “They’ve already been deployed and are ready to stabilize the situation. I am directing everyone involved in these unlawful strikes to stop these actions immediately. Legal action has already commenced to ensure compliance.”
Reports from Spectrum News confirmed that National Guard personnel in Humvees have begun their presence at the Attica Correctional Facility. By later that day, Hochul’s office elaborated that around 3,500 members of the New York National Guard had begun their duties. Their responsibilities include assisting corrections staff by distributing meals and medications to inmates as well as helping to preserve order within the facilities.
The strike has created a significant impact on inmates and their families, who face disruptions in essential services such as legal access and family visits. Soffiyah Elijah, the executive director of the Alliance of Families for Justice, remarked on the fear among family members regarding the situation worsening due to the governor’s National Guard deployment. She referenced the tragic events of 1971 when National Guard soldiers were involved in a violent incident at Attica.
Families have reported lockdowns and restrictions at multiple prisons including Bear Hill, Franklin, Upstate, and several others. Questions regarding the extent of the ongoing strikes were not addressed by Hochul’s spokesperson.
Earlier on Wednesday, the state filed an injunction under the Taylor Law, which resulted in a judge issuing a temporary restraining order that compels the striking correction officers to halt their illegal actions. Violations of this law could lead to fines or further sanctions against the striking guards.
Union leaders have acknowledged that the strike is illegal and emphasized that they did not sanction it. Discussions between union representatives and the governor’s office have been ongoing for two consecutive days, as both sides seek a resolution to the crisis. James Miller, spokesperson for the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association, confirmed that negotiations were active, aiming for an agreement.
Demand for the strike arose from several issues, including calls for better pay, increased searches of prison visitors, and a rollback of recent reforms limiting solitary confinement. This unrest also coincides with the events surrounding the death of inmate David Brooks, who was seen in footage being beaten by corrections officers while handcuffed at the Marcy Correctional Facility. Following an investigation that ruled his death a homicide in February, the governor ordered the termination of involved prison staff. An update regarding the criminal proceedings related to Brooks’ case is anticipated to be announced on Thursday.
