Previously Published in The Messenger
By Cait Crudden
In a move that critics say puts political interests above public safety, New York State has announced plans to release certain incarcerated individuals early under the guise of alleviating staffing shortages in its prison system. According to an internal memo, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) has ordered prison superintendents to create lists of inmates eligible for early release, despite concerns from law enforcement and lawmakers about the risks this poses to communities.
The memo, issued by DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello on Monday, outlines specific eligibility criteria for the program. To qualify, incarcerated individuals must be within 15 to 110 days of their scheduled release date, not be serving time for high-level felonies such as murder, terrorism, arson, violent crimes, or sex offenses and have an approved residence, excluding shelters or Department of Social Services placements.
These individuals will serve the remainder of their sentences under parole supervision rather than behind bars. A DOCCS spokesperson stated that it will take time to determine how many inmates will be granted early release under the initiative. The decision has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that Governor Kathy Hochul (D) and state officials are choosing political expediency over the safety of New Yorkers. This decision comes just three weeks after the state fired over 2,000 trained corrections officers in response to a 22-day unsanctioned strike, a move that has only worsened staffing shortages.
Despite growing opposition, criminal justice reform advocates continue to push their agenda, arguing that the individuals being released were already scheduled to leave prison within a few months and pose minimal risk to public safety. However, opponents question why the state is prioritizing the early release of criminals over hiring and retaining trained correction officers. Governor Hochul’s office has attempted to justify the move, releasing a statement that reads, “Governor Hochul’s top priority is the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers. The Governor is aware of Commissioner Martuscello’s memo and supports his efforts to safely address staffing shortages and personnel concerns.”
Meanwhile, the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA), the union representing correction officers, remains firm in its opposition.
“NYSCOPBA’s concern, as it has always been, is the current and future safety of all staff working in the correctional facilities. We will continue to advocate on behalf of our members for the department to address the on-going safety concerns that currently exist.”
With the policy now set in motion, state officials will begin reviewing eligible inmates for release. While supporters frame this as a step toward criminal justice reform, opponents warn that prioritizing politics over public safety could have dire consequences for communities across New York. By choosing to release incarcerated individuals instead of addressing staffing shortages through proper recruitment and retention strategies, the state is making a choice that puts its citizens at risk. The debate over whether New York will prioritize law and order or continue down this path remains far from over.