New York governor deploys National Guard against illegal strike

New York governor deploys National Guard against illegal strike

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul has deployed National Guard troops to state prisons to ensure security during a wildcat strike by correctional officers. The strike actions and picketing are taking place around 30 state prisons, union representatives reported Wednesday morning.

National Guard to stabilize the situation

Kathy Hochul announced that the National Guard was deployed on Wednesday, but she did not specify which prisons the soldiers would be deployed to. In a video address, Hochul said: "They are already on site and ready to stabilize the situation. I call on all those involved to immediately end these illegal strike actions. Legal steps have already been taken to ensure this."

Support for law enforcement officers

According to statements from Hochul's office, 3,500 New York National Guard members will be deployed to support law enforcement officers. Their duties include distributing meals and medication to inmates, as well as maintaining general order and well-being in the facilities.

Impact on inmates and their families

The strikes have upended the lives of inmates and their families, who have been barred from important visits to legal meetings. Soffiyah Elijah, executive director of the Alliance of Families for Justice, which advocates for the families of incarcerated people, said the lockdowns have also limited access to religious services, parole boards and medical treatment. She said, “Our family members and their incarcerated loved ones are gripped by fear of what could happen if the governor calls in the National Guard.”

Legal measures against strikers

A spokesman for Hochul responded to questions about the extension of the strikes by stating that New York State today filed a motion under the Taylor Act, approved by a judge, to impose an injunction on striking law enforcement officers. Striking officials may face fines or other sanctions under this law.

Background of the protests

The state prison officers union has already acknowledged that the strike is illegal and not authorized by them. Union officials met with the governor's team for two days to find a solution. Negotiations with the state continued Wednesday, according to James Miller, a spokesman for the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association.

Demands of law enforcement officers

The union representatives said correctional officers are protesting for better wages, increased screening of prison visitors and a rollback of recent reforms affecting solitary confinement. The strike also comes in the wake of the murder of inmate David Brooks, who was beaten by correctional officers while shackled during an incident at Marcy Correctional Facility. The governor ultimately ordered the firing of the employees involved in the incident, which was ruled a homicide.

Update on the Brooks case

A special prosecutor will provide an update on the criminal proceedings in Brooks' death on Thursday.