The citymeetings.nyc logo showing a pigeon at a podium with a microphone.

citymeetings.nyc

Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.

New York City Council

Committee on Criminal Justice

Oct 31, 2024

·

10:00 AM

4 hr 13 min

Summary

A hearing on preventing and addressing sexual assault and harassment in New York City jails, particularly at Rikers Island.

Discussions focused on:

  • The high rates of sexual abuse allegations
  • Inadequate investigation procedures
  • Low substantiation rates of complaints
  • The need for systemic reforms

The hearing examined the impact of the Adult Survivors Act, which led to over 700 lawsuits alleging sexual abuse at Rikers spanning decades.

Council members pressed for more accountability, improved training, and comprehensive oversight.

Features testimony from the Department of Correction (DOC), Correctional Health Services (CHS), Department of Investigation (DOI), sexual abuse survivors, and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Council Member Sandy Nurse's opening remarks on sexual assault in city jails

Council Member Sandy Nurse opens the oversight hearing on preventing and addressing sexual assault and harassment in city jails. She highlights the persistent issue of sexual abuse at Rikers Island, …

0:00:22

·

4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Karen Klines, Survivor of Sexual Abuse while Incarcerated

Karen Klines, a survivor of sexual abuse while incarcerated, provided powerful testimony about her experiences and the lack of accountability for abusers in the prison system. She emphasized the ongoing …

0:05:41

·

167 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Tasha Carter Beasley, Former Inmate at Rikers Island

Tasha Carter Beasley, a former inmate at Rikers Island, provides powerful testimony about her experiences of sexual abuse and the long-lasting trauma it has caused. She details the challenges of …

0:08:39

·

12 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Seton Saco on Sexual Violence in Prisons

Seton Saco, a former inmate at Rikers Island, provided testimony about his experience of sexual harassment and inappropriate touching by a staff member during his incarceration about 8 years ago. …

0:21:13

·

175 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Donna Hylton on Sexual Abuse at Rikers Island

Donna Hylton provides testimony about her personal experience of sexual abuse as an adolescent at Rikers Island nearly 40 years ago, highlighting the ongoing nature of such abuse in the …

0:24:14

·

12 min

REMARKS

Council Member Sandy Nurse thanks survivors for their testimony and acknowledges the impact of the hearing

Council Member Sandy Nurse expresses gratitude to the survivors who testified and acknowledges the importance of their testimony. She emphasizes the council's commitment to addressing the issues raised and the …

0:37:13

·

104 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Carlina Rivera addresses sexual abuse in city jails and introduces legislation

Council Member Carlina Rivera expresses empathy for sexual abuse survivors in city jails and discusses legislative efforts to address the issue. She introduces her bill, Intro 792, which would require …

0:38:58

·

149 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and zero tolerance policy for sexual assault in jails

Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie introduces herself and emphasizes the Department of Correction's zero tolerance policy for sexual assault and harassment in New York City jails. She stresses the importance of safety …

0:45:02

·

36 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Overview of the Prison Rape Elimination Act and DOC compliance

The Commissioner provides an overview of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and its standards, explaining how the Department of Correction has been working towards compliance since 2015. She also …

0:45:40

·

77 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DOC's PREA compliance and investigation units

The Commissioner describes the Department of Correction's PREA compliance unit and PREA investigation unit, explaining their roles in managing policies and procedures related to preventing and responding to sexual abuse …

0:46:58

·

65 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Training requirements for DOC staff, contractors, and volunteers

The Commissioner outlines the training requirements for all Department of Correction staff, contractors, and volunteers working in the jails regarding sexual abuse and harassment prevention and reporting. - All DOC …

0:48:05

·

28 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Screening and orientation procedures for individuals in custody

The Commissioner explains the screening and orientation procedures for individuals entering DOC custody, focusing on assessing risk and informing new admissions about reporting sexual abuse and harassment. - Every individual …

0:48:34

·

34 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Reporting mechanisms for sexual abuse allegations

The Commissioner details the various pathways available for reporting sexual abuse and harassment allegations within the Department of Correction facilities. - Multiple reporting options are provided, including hotlines to various …

0:49:12

·

50 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Investigation processes for sexual abuse allegations

The Commissioner outlines the investigation processes for sexual abuse allegations within the Department of Correction, including initial steps, timeline requirements, and the roles of different agencies. - Allegations of staff …

0:50:04

·

175 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Classification of investigation outcomes and disciplinary measures

The Commissioner explains how sexual abuse and harassment investigations are classified and the potential disciplinary measures for substantiated allegations. - Investigations are classified as substantiated, unsubstantiated, or unfounded based on …

0:53:01

·

47 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Handling of staff victimization cases and support services

The Commissioner addresses the issue of sexual assault and harassment experienced by DOC staff, external providers, and volunteers, outlining the investigation process and support services available. - Staff victimization cases …

0:53:51

·

158 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of proposed legislation (Intro 792 and Intro 830)

The Commissioner introduces two pieces of proposed legislation related to sexual abuse and harassment in DOC facilities: Intro 792 and Intro 830. - Intro 792 would require DOC to establish …

0:56:29

·

27 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Implementation of new electronic case management system

The Commissioner provides details on the implementation of a new electronic case management system for tracking sexual abuse and harassment cases within the Department of Correction. - DOC has been …

0:56:57

·

109 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Commitment to improvement and PREA compliance

The Commissioner concludes her testimony by reaffirming the Department of Correction's commitment to eliminating sexual misconduct in its facilities and improving compliance with PREA standards. - DOC maintains a zero-tolerance …

0:58:48

·

37 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and overview of CHS's role in addressing sexual assault in city jails

Jeanette Merrill, Senior Assistant Vice President of Communications and External Affairs for NYC Health And Hospitals Correctional Health Services (CHS), introduces herself and outlines the focus of her testimony. She …

0:59:29

·

29 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

CHS efforts to address sexual assault and abuse against staff

CHS has implemented various measures to ensure staff safety and address workplace violence, including sexual offenses. These efforts involve collaboration with the Department of Correction (DOC) and healthcare unions. - …

0:59:59

·

101 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

CHS policies and procedures for staff hiring and training

CHS implemented robust processes for employee background checks and security screenings after becoming the direct provider of correctional healthcare in 2016. The organization has strict policies regarding the hiring and …

1:01:40

·

65 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Reporting and handling of sexual abuse allegations involving CHS staff

CHS has established a clear process for reporting and handling sexual abuse allegations involving staff members. This process involves multiple departments and agencies to ensure thorough investigation and appropriate action. …

1:02:46

·

38 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Screening and care for patients with history of trauma or abuse

CHS implements comprehensive screening processes and provides individualized care for patients with a history of trauma or abuse. Special attention is given to mental health needs and intimate partner violence …

1:03:26

·

81 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Patient reporting mechanisms for sexual assault and abuse

CHS has established multiple pathways for patients to report sexual assault, abuse, and harassment. These mechanisms ensure that patients have various options to disclose abuse and seek help. - Patients …

1:04:48

·

30 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Medical evaluation and follow-up care for patients reporting sexual abuse

CHS has comprehensive procedures for medical evaluation, documentation, and follow-up care for patients who report sexual abuse. This includes both immediate care and long-term support services. - Patients are seen …

1:05:19

·

67 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Conclusion: CHS's commitment to preventing sexual abuse and building patient trust

Jeanette Merrill concludes her testimony by emphasizing CHS's commitment to preventing sexual assault, abuse, and harassment in city jails. She highlights the importance of building trust between providers and patients …

1:06:27

·

22 sec

Q&A

DOC Commissioner's background and acknowledgment of sexual abuse allegations

Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie about her tenure at DOC and her stance on the sexual abuse allegations at Rikers Island. - Commissioner Maginley-Liddie has been …

1:07:16

·

3 min

Q&A

DOC's process for investigating sexual abuse allegations

Ingris Martinez, Deputy Director of Investigations for the PREA unit, explains the process for investigating sexual abuse allegations at DOC. - Investigations begin immediately upon receiving an allegation - If …

1:11:04

·

166 sec

Q&A

Criteria for founded sexual abuse cases and staff suspension procedures

DOC officials explain the criteria for founded sexual abuse cases and the procedures for staff suspension during investigations. - Determinations are based on federal standards and the preponderance of evidence …

1:13:52

·

116 sec

Q&A

Current number of open sexual abuse investigations

Ingris Martinez provides information on the current number of open sexual abuse investigations at DOC. - For the year 2024 to date, there have been 193 reported incidents - Currently, …

1:15:50

·

62 sec

Q&A

Investigations exceeding 90-day limit

Ingris Martinez provides information on the number of investigations exceeding the 90-day limit and reasons for delays. - Currently, 4 investigations are over the 90-day limit - Delays are due …

1:16:52

·

23 sec

Q&A

Staff members suspended or on modified duty due to sexual abuse allegations

Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the number of DOC staff members currently suspended or on modified duty due to sexual abuse allegations. - DOC officials do not have the …

1:17:16

·

65 sec

Q&A

Correction officers fired or resigned after sexual abuse investigations

Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about the number of correction officers fired or resigned in 2024 after investigations into sexual abuse. - DOC officials do not have the immediate information …

1:18:24

·

27 sec

Q&A

Delays in completing investigations within 90 days

DOC officials explain reasons for delays in completing sexual abuse investigations within the 90-day timeframe. - The share of investigations taking over 90 days increased from 23% in 2022 to …

1:18:51

·

4 min

Q&A

Staffing needs for investigators

DOC officials discuss the staffing needs for investigators to address the caseload more effectively. - The department is looking to onboard 14 additional investigators - This number is considered the …

1:22:52

·

21 sec

Q&A

Explanation of 'fuller preliminary investigations'

Ingris Martinez explains the concept of 'fuller preliminary investigations' and how it has changed the investigation process. - Fuller preliminary investigations involve collecting all information at once to avoid re-victimizing …

1:23:13

·

70 sec

Q&A

Investigator caseloads

Ingris Martinez provides details on the caseloads of DOC investigators handling sexual abuse allegations. - There are 19 total investigators, all of whom go out into the field - 14 …

1:24:24

·

109 sec

Q&A

Use of temporary duty officers in investigations

Ingris Martinez provides information on the use of temporary duty (TDY) officers in the DOC's investigative division. - The investigation division unit has 10 TDY officers and 3 TDY supervisors …

1:26:14

·

80 sec

Q&A

Role of DOC captains in investigations

Ingris Martinez clarifies the role of DOC captains in PREA investigations. - Captains within the investigation division serve in supervisory roles - All PREA incident investigations are confidential - Facility …

1:27:34

·

64 sec

REMARKS

Recent disciplinary outcomes for sexual abuse cases

James Conroy, General Counsel for DOC, provides an update on recent disciplinary outcomes for sexual abuse cases in 2024. - 5 cases are currently open or pending, some carried over …

1:28:44

·

49 sec

Q&A

Low substantiation rates for sexual abuse allegations

Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about the low substantiation rates for sexual abuse allegations compared to national averages. - Since 2015, only 0.5% of PREA-reportable sexual abuse allegations …

1:29:34

·

155 sec

Q&A

DOC efforts to improve investigation processes and substantiation rates

Commissioner Maginley-Liddie outlines DOC's efforts to improve investigation processes and increase substantiation rates for sexual abuse allegations. - Key initiatives include: - Revamping and increasing training for staff - Implementing …

1:32:09

·

110 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Marte's opening remarks and acknowledgments

Council Member Christopher Marte opens the session with heartfelt acknowledgments and remarks. He expresses gratitude to the four women present for their courage and power in testifying, emphasizing the impact …

1:34:00

·

42 sec

Q&A

Status of PREA investigator training with NYPD Special Victims Course

Council Member Marte inquires about the status of PREA investigator training, specifically regarding the NYPD Special Victims Course. DOC officials respond, revealing that while all investigators received this training in …

1:34:44

·

98 sec

Q&A

Importance of refresher training for PREA investigators

Council Member Marte inquires about the importance of annual refresher training for PREA investigators. DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie agrees on the significance of ongoing training and provides information on recent …

1:36:23

·

69 sec

REMARKS

Overview of DOC's PREA training program and compliance rates

Dr. Jeremiah Johnson, Acting Deputy Commissioner of Training and Development at DOC, provides a comprehensive overview of the department's PREA training program. He outlines the program's history, content, and recent …

1:37:39

·

113 sec

Q&A

Status of forensic experiential trauma interview training for PREA investigators

Council Member Marte inquires about the status of forensic experiential trauma interview training for PREA investigators. DOC officials acknowledge that not all current investigators have received this specialized training. - …

1:39:34

·

36 sec

Q&A

Changes in DOC's investigation practices since 2019 Board of Corrections audit

DOC officials explain the changes implemented in their investigation practices since the 2019 Board of Corrections audit. These changes aim to improve the integrity of investigations and reduce re-victimization of …

1:40:10

·

3 min

Q&A

Measures to protect witnesses and complainants from retaliation

DOC officials outline the measures in place to protect witnesses and complainants from retaliation following sexual assault allegations. These measures include immediate actions and ongoing monitoring. - Victims are immediately …

1:43:14

·

104 sec

Q&A

Procedures for transferring and protecting victims within facilities

DOC officials explain the procedures for transferring and protecting victims of sexual assault within their facilities. The process involves multiple steps to ensure the safety of the victims. - Separation …

1:44:59

·

76 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Stevens expresses concern over widespread sexual assault issues

Council Member Althea Stevens opens with a powerful statement expressing her distress over the pervasive issue of sexual assault across various city systems, including juvenile detention, foster care, and now …

1:46:26

·

134 sec

Q&A

DOC measures to protect staff from sexual assault

Council Member Stevens inquires about the protective measures DOC takes to keep staff safe from sexual assault. DOC officials describe their approach, focusing on training and reporting procedures. - DOC …

1:48:35

·

114 sec

Q&A

Services and support for DOC staff who experience sexual assault

Council Member Stevens presses DOC officials on the specific services and support provided to staff members who experience sexual assault. The discussion reveals gaps in current support systems and plans …

1:50:29

·

130 sec

Q&A

Timeline for implementing additional staff training and support

Council Member Stevens presses DOC officials on the timeline for implementing additional training and support for staff. The exchange reveals a lack of concrete plans and timelines from DOC leadership. …

1:52:39

·

130 sec

Q&A

Explanation of peer support models and staff training programs

Dr. Johnson explains the department's plans for implementing peer support models and resilience training for staff. Council Member Stevens continues to press for more concrete details and timelines. - Peer …

1:54:53

·

3 min

Q&A

Status of PREA compliance audits for DOC facilities

Council Member Stevens inquires about the status of PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) compliance audits for DOC facilities. The discussion reveals that the department has not completed these audits as …

1:58:43

·

82 sec

Q&A

Implementation of body cameras for DOC staff

Council Member Stevens inquires about the implementation of body cameras for DOC staff. The DOC Commissioner provides an update on the department's plans for body-worn cameras. - In May, there …

2:00:06

·

77 sec

Q&A

DOI recommendations for enhancing camera coverage in jails

Council Member Stevens inquires about the implementation of DOI recommendations for enhancing camera coverage in jails. The discussion reveals that not all recommendations have been fully implemented. - DOI recommended …

2:01:25

·

45 sec

Q&A

Status of cameras in transport vehicles for people in custody

Council Member Stevens inquires about the status of cameras in transport vehicles for people in custody, following up on a 2019 pilot program mandated by the Board of Correction. - …

2:02:10

·

55 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Stevens' closing remarks on collaboration and accountability

Council Member Stevens delivers closing remarks emphasizing the importance of collaboration and accountability in addressing the serious issues of sexual assault in city systems. - Stevens reiterates that it has …

2:03:08

·

46 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Nurse criticizes DOC's lack of communication and follow-through

Council Member Sandy Nurse expresses frustration with DOC's ongoing communication issues and lack of follow-through on promised actions and information. - Nurse supports Stevens' line of questioning as appropriate given …

2:03:56

·

85 sec

Q&A

Discussion on evidence standards and low substantiation rates for sexual abuse claims

Council Member Cabán questions DOC officials about the standards of evidence used for substantiating sexual abuse claims and expresses concern about low substantiation rates. The discussion covers: - The definition …

2:05:23

·

3 min

Q&A

DOC's definitions of sexual abuse and inappropriate behavior

Council Member Cabán presses DOC officials on their definitions of sexual abuse and inappropriate behavior. Key points include: - DOC's definition of sexual abuse, which includes crimes under New York …

2:09:12

·

3 min

Q&A

Debate on verbal statements as sexual abuse

Council Member Cabán questions DOC officials about their classification and investigation of verbal sexual abuse. The discussion reveals: - DOC does not classify verbal statements of a sexual nature as …

2:13:02

·

153 sec

Q&A

Handling of situations involving transgender or intersex individuals

Council Member Cabán questions DOC officials about their policies and practices regarding transgender and intersex individuals. Key points include: - DOC's policy on asking transgender or intersex individuals about their …

2:15:36

·

122 sec

Q&A

Discussion of Intro 830 and Council Member Cabán's closing remarks

Council Member Cabán questions DOC officials about Intro 830 and expresses her frustration with their responses. The discussion covers: - Intro 830's requirement for DOC to work with national experts …

2:17:37

·

3 min

REMARKS

Council Member Narcisse shares personal experience of sexual harassment

Council Member Mercedes Narcisse shares a personal experience of sexual harassment from her high school years to emphasize the seriousness of the issue being discussed. She describes an incident where …

2:21:01

·

64 sec

Q&A

Discussion on implementation of DOI recommendations for camera coverage in jails

Council Member Narcisse inquires about the implementation of Department of Investigation (DOI) recommendations regarding camera coverage in city jails. Commissioner Maginley-Liddie responds, explaining the current status of these recommendations. - …

2:22:06

·

131 sec

Q&A

Detailed explanation of the process for reporting and investigating sexual abuse complaints

Deputy Director Ingris Martinez provides a comprehensive explanation of the process for reporting and investigating sexual abuse complaints in city jails. The process involves multiple reporting pathways and a series …

2:24:18

·

3 min

Q&A

Inquiry about medical team involvement in physical abuse cases

Council Member Narcisse inquires about the timing and involvement of medical teams in physical abuse cases. Deputy Director Martinez provides a brief explanation of the process. - The timing of …

2:28:03

·

33 sec

Q&A

Review process for abuse and harassment reports among staff

Commissioner Maginley-Liddie and Associate Commissioner McCormick explain the process for addressing and reviewing abuse and harassment reports among staff members in the Department of Correction. - Incidents involving staff are …

2:28:37

·

125 sec

REMARKS

Emphasis on the importance of mental health support and follow-up for abuse victims

Council Member Narcisse stresses the critical importance of providing ongoing mental health support and follow-up care for victims of abuse in the correctional system. She emphasizes the long-lasting impact of …

2:30:43

·

31 sec

REMARKS

Acknowledgment of trauma in corrections and the need to prioritize staff well-being

Commissioner Maginley-Liddie acknowledges the significant trauma experienced in the corrections field and emphasizes the department's commitment to prioritizing staff well-being and safety in the jails. - The commissioner recognizes the …

2:31:14

·

62 sec

REMARKS

New York City's responsibility to lead by example in addressing safety issues

Council Member Narcisse emphasizes New York City's responsibility to lead by example in addressing safety issues within the correctional system. She stresses the importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being …

2:32:16

·

42 sec

Q&A

Discussion of Adult Survivor Act lawsuits and allegations against DOC staff

Council Member Sandy Nurse initiates a discussion about Adult Survivor Act lawsuits filed against the Department of Correction (DOC). She highlights specific cases where correction officers accused of sexual assault …

2:33:02

·

108 sec

Q&A

DOC's process for handling lawsuit notifications and removing accused officers

Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about their process for receiving notifications about lawsuits and the timeline for removing accused officers from duty. The discussion reveals challenges in the …

2:34:50

·

5 min

Q&A

DOC's approach to lawsuits with anonymous 'John Doe' or 'Jane Doe' officers

Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about DOC's handling of lawsuits that involve detailed descriptions of alleged perpetrators named only as 'CEO John Doe' or 'CEO Jane Doe'. The discussion focuses …

2:40:35

·

5 min

Q&A

Supervisory rounds and DOI recommendations to reduce sexual misconduct

The council discusses the importance of supervisory rounds in preventing abuse and examines DOI recommendations aimed at reducing opportunities for sexual misconduct in correctional facilities. - DOC explains their two-fold …

2:46:02

·

3 min

Q&A

Debate on male officers guarding female inmates without supervision

Council Member Sandy Nurse raises concerns about the practice of male correction officers guarding female inmates without supervision, citing expert opinions that this violates correctional best practices. - Nurse references …

2:49:47

·

3 min

Q&A

DOC's awareness and response to 'deadlocking' allegations

Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOC officials about their awareness of the practice known as 'deadlocking' and the department's response to recent allegations. - Commissioner Maginley-Liddie claims she has never …

2:53:00

·

132 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and overview of DOI's role in DOC oversight

Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber introduces herself and outlines the Department of Investigation's oversight role regarding sexual abuse and harassment in New York City Department of Correction facilities. - DOI is responsible …

3:07:47

·

20 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Scale of sexual abuse problem and DOI's responsibilities

Commissioner Strauber addresses the alarming scale of sexual abuse allegations in DOC facilities and outlines DOI's responsibilities in addressing these issues. - Over 700 lawsuits alleging sexual abuse of women …

3:08:08

·

90 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

PREA standards and DOC Directive 5011

Commissioner Strauber explains the legal and policy framework governing sexual abuse prevention and response in correctional facilities. - The Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) of 2003 established federal mandates to …

3:09:40

·

64 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DOI's mandate and focus areas for DOC investigations

Commissioner Strauber outlines DOI's broader mandate and specific focus areas for investigations related to the Department of Correction. - DOI investigates fraud, waste, abuse, corruption, and illegal activities by city …

3:10:45

·

55 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Process for reporting and assessing sexual abuse complaints

Commissioner Strauber details the process for reporting and assessing sexual abuse complaints within the DOC system. - Both persons in custody and staff can report alleged sexual abuse through DOI's …

3:11:41

·

166 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

DOI's investigative team structure and training

Commissioner Strauber outlines the structure and training of DOI's investigative team responsible for DOC oversight. - Approximately 23 investigators are assigned to DOI's Squad 1, which oversees DOC - 12 …

3:14:28

·

37 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Statistics on sexual misconduct complaints and investigations

Commissioner Strauber presents statistics on sexual misconduct complaints received and investigations opened by DOI. - For calendar years 2022, 2023, and 2024 (as of October 24th), DOI received 3,022 complaints …

3:15:06

·

57 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Challenges in investigating sexual misconduct in jails

Commissioner Strauber outlines the unique challenges faced when investigating sexual misconduct in city jail facilities. - Victims may be hesitant to come forward or cooperate due to shame or fear, …

3:16:04

·

47 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Arrest and referral statistics for sexual misconduct cases

Commissioner Strauber provides statistics on arrests and referrals resulting from sexual misconduct investigations in DOC facilities. - Since 2017, DOI has investigated approximately 58 complaints of staff-on-inmate sexual abuse or …

3:16:53

·

83 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Policy and procedure recommendations (PPRs) to improve DOC policies

Commissioner Strauber explains DOI's role in making policy and procedure recommendations to strengthen internal controls and oversight within DOC. - Since 2014, DOI has issued 35 PPRs related to sexual …

3:18:19

·

69 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Ongoing efforts and commitment to eradicating sexual abuse in DOC facilities

Commissioner Strauber concludes by emphasizing DOI's ongoing commitment to eradicating sexual abuse and harassment in DOC facilities. - Recent lawsuits and ongoing investigations highlight the need for continued active efforts …

3:19:29

·

46 sec

Q&A

DOI's use of correction officers in sexual abuse investigations

Council Member Sandy Nurse questions Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber about the composition of DOI's investigative team, particularly the use of correction officers and captains detailed from DOC. The discussion covers the …

3:20:15

·

6 min

Q&A

Potential for large-scale DOI investigation into systemic problems at DOC

Council Member Sandy Nurse inquires about DOI's consideration of a large-scale investigation into systemic problems at DOC, given the recent Adult Survivors Act lawsuits. Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber acknowledges that DOI …

3:26:18

·

3 min

Q&A

Resource needs for comprehensive DOI investigation into DOC

Council Member Sandy Nurse and Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber discuss the resource requirements for conducting a comprehensive investigation into DOC. The commissioner emphasizes the need for additional staff, while the council …

3:30:11

·

74 sec

Q&A

Council Member Stevens proposes comprehensive investigation into sexual assault across correctional facilities

Council Member Althea Stevens proposes a comprehensive investigation into sexual assault across various correctional facilities, including adult and juvenile centers. She emphasizes the importance of proper funding for the Department …

3:31:31

·

170 sec

Q&A

Council member questions DOI commissioner on sexual abuse allegation procedures

Council Member Sandy Nurse questions DOI Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber about the process of handling sexual abuse allegations in city jails. The discussion covers the types of evidence provided by DOC, …

3:34:22

·

4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Anna Kull, Attorney at Levy Konigsberg, on Sexual Abuse in NYC Jails

Anna Kull, an attorney representing sexual abuse survivors, testified about the ongoing issue of sexual abuse within New York City prisons, particularly at the Rose M. Singer Center on Rikers …

3:40:48

·

6 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Konstantin Yelisavetskiy, Managing Attorney at Slater Slater Schulman LLP

Konstantin Yelisavetskiy, Managing Attorney at Slater Slater Schulman LLP, testified about the pervasive issue of sexual assault in New York City jails, particularly at Rikers Island. He highlighted the failure …

3:47:39

·

4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Barbara Hamilton, Director of Incarcerated Client Services at Legal Aid Society

Barbara Hamilton from Legal Aid Society testified on the urgent need for action to address sexual abuse in NYC jails, particularly criticizing the Department of Correction's ineffective policies and investigations. …

3:51:52

·

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Michael Klinger, Jail Services Attorney from Brooklyn Defender Services

Michael Klinger, a jail services attorney from Brooklyn Defender Services, testified about sexual abuse in Rikers Island jails. He emphasized the underreporting of sexual abuse allegations and the fear inmates …

3:55:28

·

124 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Leah Faria, Director of Community Engagement at Women's Community Justice Association

Leah Faria, representing the Women's Community Justice Association and the Beyond ROSIE's campaign, testified about the widespread sexual abuse at Rikers Island's Rose M. Singer Center. She criticized the city's …

3:58:35

·

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Yonah Zeitz, Advocacy Director of Katal Center for Equity Health and Justice

Yonah Zeitz, representing the Katal Center for Equity Health and Justice, testified about the urgent need to address the crisis at Rikers Island jail complex, particularly focusing on the issues …

4:02:38

·

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Sexual Assault in City Jails

Christopher Leon Johnson testified about the need to address sexual assault in city jails, emphasizing that the issue affects not only inmates but also corrections officers and employees. He argued …

4:05:58

·

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Chaplain Dr. Victoria Phillips, Founder/CEO of Visionary V, on Sexual Assault in NYC Jails

Chaplain Dr. Victoria Phillips, Founder/CEO of Visionary V, testified about the ongoing issues of sexual assault in NYC jails, particularly at Rikers Island. She criticized the lack of concrete answers …

4:09:23

·

3 min

Citymeetings.nyc pigeon logo

Is citymeetings.nyc useful to you?

I'm thrilled!

Please help me out by answering just one question.

What do you do?

Thank you!

Want to stay up to date? Sign up for the newsletter.