AGENCY TESTIMONY
Handling of staff victimization cases and support services
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158 sec
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 are investigated by the Correction Intelligence Bureau (CIB)
- CIB conducts interviews and collects evidence for potential arrests
- Immediate intervention and ongoing support are provided to staff victims
- The Correction Assistance Response for Employees (CARE) unit offers holistic support and resources
- External support services are also available through the Employee Assistance Program
Lynelle Maginley-Liddie
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The safety and well-being of DOC staff and anyone else who works in our jail is of paramount importance.
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They deserve a workplace free from violence and harassment.
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Everyone who works in the jails is required to complete a situational awareness training prior to entering the facilities.
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DOC supervisory staff are expected to tour jails regularly to assess and abate conditions that may lead to violence or harassment.
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In addition, staff and leadership positions throughout the agency continue to tour the jails on a regular basis to observe conditions, speak with staff and individuals in custody and address any issues they observe while they are on tour.
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Unfortunately, despite these efforts, staff, external providers, and volunteers have experienced sexual assault.
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And harassment from individuals in custody.
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Such instances are not within the purview of Priya guidelines, and a separate investigation process is managed by the department's correction intelligence bureau.
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Following a report, CIB interviews the victim as soon as possible and collects witness statements and other potential evidence to make a charge an arrest.
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If an arrest is made all pertinent documents afforded to the Bronx District Attorney.
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Assalzon staff are traumatic experiences, and our approach centers on immediate intervention, ongoing support and fostering resilience.
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Supervisor's meet staff to check on their well-being and offer support immediately following an assault and throughout their recovery.
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By addressing the emotional, physical, and psychological needs of staff.
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We aim to provide a safe, supportive work environment for all employees.
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In addition, the department corrections assistance response for him Loy's Unit provides a holistic range of support and resources, including counseling, spiritual guidance, and referrals to professional providers.
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The care unit as it is called is comprised of veteran officers who can share in the staff's experience and offer compassionate peer based support.
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They tour the facilities regularly to check-in on staff and encourage them to access the support supportive resources available to them.