West NY News

On February 12, 2025, Senator George Borrello issued a statement criticizing the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) for its decision to reduce staffing levels in state prisons. According to Borrello, Acting DOCCS Commissioner Daniel Martuscello has instructed prison superintendents to consider 70 percent staffing capacity as "full staffing" and has required them to develop plans for permanent operation with fewer personnel.

Borrello described this move as a "de facto 30 percent staffing cut" in a system he claims is already struggling, evidenced by a recent lockdown at Collins Correctional Facility. He argues that instead of addressing issues such as rising violence and officer shortages, DOCCS and Governor Kathy Hochul's administration are exacerbating the situation.

He expressed concern over the impact on correctional officers who are "stretched to the breaking point," often working double or triple shifts. This workload, according to Borrello, affects their health and safety while increasing instability within prisons. He also criticized the HALT Act, suggesting it limits officers' ability to maintain control.

"The lockdown at Collins and this 30 percent staffing reduction are just the latest evidence of DOCCS reckless mismanagement and Albany’s pro-criminal policies," said Borrello. He urged Governor Hochul and Commissioner Martuscello to reverse the decision immediately, warning that failure to do so could result in loss of life for both staff and inmates.