Correctional Association of New York Releases Report on Conditions at Taconic Correctional Facility
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Correctional Association of New York Releases Report on Conditions at Taconic Correctional Facility
Brooklyn, NY - The Correctional Association of New York (CANY) today released a Post-Visit Briefing on Taconic Correctional Facility, one of only four women's prisons in New York State. The report, based on a monitoring visit conducted in December 2023, details inadequate access to medical and dental care, concerns about staff conduct, poor environmental conditions, and a lack of reentry programs. However, the report also notes that incarcerated individuals positively reviewed the volunteer-led and higher education programs offered at the facility.
In their response to the report, the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) indicated that since the date of CANY's visit, Taconic has hired an additional physician and a dentist, which should help address some of the concerns raised regarding access to medical and dental care.
Key findings from interviews with incarcerated individuals include:
Basic Needs
While commissary is adequately stocked, there is a lack of variety. Access to packages is often delayed. The quality of food is poor, leading many to seek costly alternatives.
Medical and Dental Care
Access to adequate medical and dental care is a significant concern. Issues include medication access and difficulty obtaining dental appointments.
Mental Health
Despite a high number of individuals on the mental health caseload, many report not getting the programs they need or desire more support.
Programs and Recreation
Several incarcerated individuals noted a lack of programming or outdated re-entry programs. However, volunteer-led and higher education programs were viewed positively.
Staff Interactions
Some individuals report positive experiences with staff, while others describe a lack of accountability for problematic treatment from staff.
Grievances and Discipline
The grievance process and the disciplinary process are perceived by incarcerated individuals as unfair and biased.
Environmental Conditions
The safety of drinking water, air quality, and extreme temperatures within the facility were concerns noted by incarcerated individuals.
"Our report raises concerns about whether incarcerated women’s complex needs are being appropriately addressed at Taconic Correctional Facility," said CANY Executive Director Jennifer Scaife. "We are encouraged by the steps DOCCS has taken to increase medical and dental staffing, and we urge them to continue to address the other issues identified in our report to ensure that incarcerated individuals at Taconic are receiving the services they need during their incarceration and to prepare for their release from prison."
For more information, including the full report, please visit:
About CANY
CANY, under §146, of New York’s Correction Law, is charged with visiting and examining the state's correctional facilities to identify and report on prison conditions, the treatment of incarcerated individuals, and the administration of policy promulgated by the executive and legislature. Founded in 1844 by concerned citizens of the state and deputized by the state to provide monitoring and oversight of the state’s prisons in 1846, CANY is one of the first organizations in the country prescribed to administer civilian oversight of prisons.