Federal Monitor Accuses New York City Of Mismanaging Rikers Island Closing

In a 61-page report, Federal Monitor Steve J. Martin revealed the disturbing conditions of New York City jails. Martin and his team are in charge of overseeing the closure of Rikers Island and neighboring NYC jails as the city faces a federal takeover of Rikers.

The report took aim directly at NYC Mayor Eric Adams and his administration. Unfortunately, 28 incarcerated individuals have died in the hands of the city's Department of Corrections since Adams’ inauguration in January, 2002 – 9 have died this year.

Issues plaguing the cities jails include staff using “high-impact force,” and increases in violent stabbings, self-harm, and staff absenteeism. The worst offense noted is the unreliable reporting of injuries or deaths by NYC jail officials. Commissioner Louis Molina reportedly asked his team not to file its May 26 report detailing five new incidents.

The City Council has announced a second iteration of the original commission to close Rikers Island. The new commission mandates that the jail closes by August 2027.

New York City’s administrative refusal to comply with the demands set to shut Rikers down is costing the lives of incarcerated people. They cannot afford to be political pawns in a game of prison monopoly. Lives are on the line so we should join in solidarity with activists and incarcerated people in calling for an end to this system.