Assemblyman DiPietro Blasts Albany Democrats Over Correctional Officer Safety Crisis

11 Correctional Officers and One Nurse Hospitalized in Recent Facility Incident

Assemblyman David DiPietro (R,C-East Aurora) held a press conference today with Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt, Sen. Gallivan, fellow Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio (R,C-Gowanda), Erie County Sheriff John Garcia, NYSCOPBA Western Region Vice President Kenny Gold, and NYSCOPBA members in response to 11 correctional officers and one nurse who were hospitalized after being exposed to fentanyl at Collins Correctional Facility. 

Safety, understaffing, recruitment, morale and compensation have all been major concerns for correctional officers (COs) in the state in recent years. This week's events are an unfortunate reality these brave men and women have to face every day they go to work.

“Albany Democrats and Gov. Kathy Hochul have left our correctional officers out to dry. Their pro-criminal policies and the chronic understaffing of our facilities have put COs in grave danger. The recent news of 11 officers being hospitalized is a direct consequence of these negligent policies. It’s time for the governor to acknowledge the real-world impact of failed policies such as the HALT Act and allowing illegal contraband to pour into the state. She needs to take immediate action to protect our dedicated correctional officers,” said DiPietro.

Assemblyman David DiPietro represents the 147th Assembly District, which includes parts of Erie and Wyoming counties.