New York National Guard Deployed to Protect Amid Correctional Facility Assaults and Work Stoppage
Background:
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the deployment of the New York National Guard to protect correction officers, inmates, and surrounding communities following a series of violent incidents and a work stoppage at a correctional facility.
Correctional Facility Unrest:
In Erie County’s Collins Correctional Facility, three dorms were taken over by inmates while three guards were attacked. Over the past year, numerous guards have sustained injuries at the facility due to inmate assaults.
Work Stoppage Details:
The New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) has engaged in a work stoppage, causing significant public safety concerns across New York. Governor Hochul has condemned the illegal nature of the actions taken by some correction officers.
Deployment of National Guard:
If the work stoppage persists, National Guard members will be deployed to correctional facilities on Wednesday. The Guard will take appropriate disciplinary actions as necessary.
Legal Mechanism:
Governor Hochul’s counsel will collaborate with the Office of the Attorney General to explore legal avenues, such as the Taylor Law, to compel correction officers to return to work.
Department of Corrections Response:
Daniel Martuscello, commissioner of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), criticized the work stoppage, emphasizing its detrimental impact on departmental operations and the safety of personnel.
Union Agreement and Efforts:
In March 2024, the NYSCOPBA reached a collective bargaining agreement with the State of New York to address the working conditions of correction officers. The agreement includes pay increases, location-based pay adjustments, increased hazardous duty pay, and paid parental leave.
Additional Measures:
In addition to the collective bargaining agreement, laws and administrative changes have been implemented to protect correction officers. Recruitment efforts have also been expanded.
NYSCOPBA Response:
As of this report, the NYSCOPBA has not responded to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
Conclusion:
Governor Hochul’s actions prioritize the safety of correction officers, inmates, and the public. The deployment of the National Guard, combined with legal mechanisms and ongoing efforts to improve working conditions, aims to address the unrest and return correctional facilities to a stable and secure state.
