What to Know About a Possible Federal Takeover of Rikers Island

New York City May Lose Control of Rikers Island #

New York City faces the possibility of losing control over the Rikers Island jail complex. A federal judge has expressed an inclination to place the jails under receivership, following concerns over ongoing safety issues and deteriorating conditions.

The city was found in contempt of an agreement made in 2015 to mitigate violence and abuse within its jails. Rikers Island, notorious for its dangerous environment, has seen dozens of deaths among individuals in custody or shortly thereafter in recent years.

If receivership is implemented, an independent authority would temporarily oversee the city’s jails, wielding substantial power to enact changes. The receiver would manage contracts, resource allocation, and staffing decisions until improvements align with judicial standards. Receiverships are rare and typically among the most severe measures taken to address failing public systems.

Attempts to reform Rikers began nearly a decade ago with the settlement of a class-action lawsuit over systemic abuses. An independent monitor was appointed to guide the necessary reforms. However, recent reports highlight worsening conditions, characterized by inefficiencies and transparency issues within the Correction Department. New York City jails, housing over 6,000 detainees, are simultaneously over-staffed and underserved.

Financially, the city has been spending over $400,000 per inmate annually, exceeding expenditures by other major cities, yet fails to ensure basic needs like food and medical care for inmates. A politically influential union opposing the receivership has defended certain policies, such as sick leave, which contribute to staffing challenges.

In determining a suitable receiver, options include management experts, public safety consultants, or experienced corrections administrators. This federal court decision does not imply federal takeover, as federal prisons in New York also struggle with similar issues.

The persistence of troubles at Rikers through various administrations signals potential for change under a receiver, who could swiftly implement improvement measures. Although receivership has shown success in cases such as California’s prison health care, long-term solutions are not guaranteed once local control resumes.

The City Council’s plan to close Rikers and replace it with smaller jails in four boroughs has faced delays. This year’s admissions indicate the closure might not meet the 2027 deadline. Lawyers must propose receivership plans by January, outlining legal frameworks and undergoing necessary changes to meet expectations.