East Hudson Valley News

Senators Rob Rolison and Dean Murray have issued a statement in response to comments made by Senator Julia Salazar regarding the ongoing crisis in New York's correctional facilities. The senators criticized Salazar for allegedly deflecting responsibility from what they see as the root cause of the crisis: policies they describe as "dangerous" and "soft-on-crime," advocated by certain far-left politicians.

According to Rolison and Murray, these policies, supported by the Democratic Majority in the State Legislature and Governor Hochul, have deprived corrections officers of essential tools needed for maintaining safety. They argue that this agenda has not only endangered public streets but also turned correctional facilities into chaotic environments.

The senators emphasized that corrections officers are seeking a safe working environment rather than special treatment. With an increase in assaults on staff, their primary concern is returning home safely after their shifts.

Rolison and Murray accused Democrats in Albany of politicizing a heinous crime—the murder of Robert Brooks—to attack all corrections officers (COs). They stressed that while those responsible should be held accountable, it is unjust to penalize every officer for one crime.

The senators urged Democrats to reconsider the HALT Act, which they claim has contributed to disorder within correctional facilities. They called for measures such as restoring discipline and proper staffing levels to allow officers to perform their duties safely.

While expressing doubt about receiving an apology from Senator Salazar, Rolison and Murray affirmed their commitment to advocating for corrections officers' support, respect, and resources necessary for restoring order in New York’s correctional institutions.