Wendel, Borrello Slam Decision by DOCCS to Release Some Inmates Early Amid Prison Staffing Shortage

The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision is facing criticism again...this time, for a directive from its commissioner to release some inmates early amidst the current staffing crisis at state prisons. Two elected officials from Chautauqua County are strongly opposing that move. In a video message Wednesday morning, County Executive P.J. Wendel slammed the state, saying they have to chosen to work with convicted felons instead of corrections officers on the issue of prison safety...

P.J. Wendel: will put communities at risk

The directive comes less than a month after the conclusion of a 22-day statewide strike that led to the firing of 2,000 corrections officers. State Senator George Borrello says Governor Kathy Hochul should look in that direction to solve the problem...

George Borrello: bring back the fired corrections officers

Under the DOCCS directive, certain inmates who are within 15 to 110 days of an approved release date will be considered for early release into "Residential Treatment outcount status." They include those who are not serving a sentence for Class A-1 or A-2 non-drug offense, a Class B through Class E violent felony, or a sex offense; and who have "identified an approved residence, which is not a shelter or [Department of Social Services] placement, upon release."

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