Statement from Senator Stec on the Announced Closure of Great Meadow Correctional Facility

“I am extremely disappointed by the announcement that Great Meadow Correctional Facility will be closed within 90 days. Time and again, I’ve spoken out against prison closures and the continued dismantling of our criminal justice system. Today’s announcement is just another example of how our state continues to put criminals before law-abiding residents and law enforcement.

 

“DOCCS and the governor’s office love to tout declining prison population numbers. But that number continues to decline because of lax criminal justice policies and “reforms.” The state parole board continues to release murderers and other convicted violent felons back into communities and bail reform has ensured that many people who are arrested are able to evade penalty.

 

“Meanwhile our communities are left with closed, vacant prisons that are slowly turning into blight. But there’s a major human element involved. Great Meadow was home to 650 good-paying jobs for residents in our region. Neighboring Washington Correctional Facility only has 75 jobs available. That means that nearly 600 jobs and families are likely leaving our community. This is a devastating social and economic blow to the area.

 

“Instead of closing Great Meadow and letting it fall apart at the expense of taxpayers, the governor’s office needs to do the smart thing and ensure that this facility can serve as a source of economic opportunity for the region.”