ALBANY, N.Y. — New York state prisons are planning to expedite the release of certain inmates due to a shortage of corrections officers, triggered by the recent dismissal of more than 2,000 guards over a strike related to inadequate working conditions.
The directive issued by corrections Commissioner Daniel Martuscello outlines the process for identifying inmates who have been convicted of minor crimes and are already slated for release within the next 15 to 110 days for possible early discharge. However, this early release does not extend to those incarcerated for sex crimes, violent felonies, or serious offenses such as murder, terrorism, and arson, according to the state corrections department.
In his memo, Martuscello emphasized that the early release initiative is a response to the staffing crisis and aims to maintain a safe and balanced environment for both prison employees and inmates.
This decision follows a significant strike by corrections officers that lasted 22 days, leading to a standstill in the state’s prison operations. Following the prolonged strike, the state terminated the employment of over 2,000 guards who continued their strike even after negotiations between the state and the guards’ union resulted in an agreement to cease the work stoppage.
In response to the situation, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has issued an executive order prohibiting state agencies from hiring any guards dismissed for participating in the strike. In a statement on Tuesday, a representative for Governor Hochul expressed her support for Commissioner Martuscello’s initiatives to manage the staffing shortfall and personnel issues in a secure manner.