REMARKS
Council Member Rivera's remarks on Intro 792-A for tracking sexual abuse investigations
0:01:35
ยท
88 sec
Council Member Carlina Rivera presents her bill, Intro 792-A, which requires the Department of Corrections to implement an electronic case management system for tracking sexual abuse investigations in city jails. She emphasizes the need for timely investigations and greater oversight to address the issue of sexual violence in New York City jails, particularly on Rikers Island.
- Rivera cites a Gothamist report stating that over 45% of sexual violence investigations exceed the mandated 90-day limit.
- The proposed electronic system aims to streamline tracking, ensure accountability, and prevent cases from remaining unresolved.
- Rivera also acknowledges Council Member Stevens' bill addressing corrections officers' needs.
Carlina Rivera
0:01:35
Good morning.
0:01:36
Thank you, chair nurse, for the opportunity to deliver brief remarks on my bill that we are voting on today, and thank you for your leadership on this issue.
0:01:44
Today we're voting on intro seven nine two, which will require the Department of Corrections to implement an electronic case management system to track investigations of sexual abuse.
0:01:53
At our hearing on this bill, we heard from survivors of sexual violence in New York City operated jails who made clear the need for greater oversight to ensure that investigations into sexual violence are completed within ninety days as mandated by local and federal policy.
0:02:10
According to a report from Gothamist, more than 45% of the department's investigations into sexual violence drag on well past ninety days.
0:02:18
The history of sexual abuse allegations at Rikers Island combined with the lack of meaningful oversight has allowed perpetrators to operate with impunity.
0:02:28
When sexual abuse investigations are delayed or ignored, it sends a message that such crimes are tolerated, perpetuating a cycle of violence.
0:02:38
Survivors deserve to know that their cases are being taken seriously and handled in a timely manner.
0:02:44
A modern electronic case management system would provide a streamlined, secure way to track reports, ensure accountability, and prevent cases from languishing without resolution.
0:02:56
I ask for your support on this legislation, and I also thank my colleague, council member Stevens, for her bill for corrections officers.
0:03:02
Thank you.