Griffo continues advocacy for corrections officers and civilian staff at state facilities

New York State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-C-Rome, recently met with state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) Acting Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello to discuss a variety of issues, including the potential closure of up to five correctional facilities that was proposed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, workforce shortages and violence against employees. The meeting is part of Sen. Griffo’s ongoing efforts to support corrections officers and civilian staff.

“I appreciate Acting Commissioner Martuscello and his staff taking the time to meet with me,” Sen. Griffo said. “This conversation provided the opportunity to discuss concerns raised by the men and women working in the state’s correctional facilities, who face significant challenges and dangerous working conditions because of flawed policies like the HALT Act that have been put in place by the governor and legislative majorities.  I will continue to be an active and engaged voice for our dedicated corrections officers and civilian staff.” 

Sen. Griffo has pushed for the implementation of policies that will protect the men and women who work at the state’s correctional facilities, including a secure vendor program and access to drug-detecting equipment and technology. He also has requested that the U.S. Department of Justice and the New York State Inspector General conduct thorough and comprehensive investigations into the increase in assaults, injuries, overdoses and other concerns at New York’s correctional facilities.

Additionally, Sen. Griffo has regularly visited correctional facilities in Oneida County – both announced and unannounced - to gather valuable information about what is occurring within these facilities.