Federal Takeover Considered for Rikers Island Jail

A U.S. judge is leaning toward ordering a federal takeover of New York City's Rikers Island jail due to ongoing violent conditions that endanger inmates and staff. Chief U.S. District Judge Laura Taylor Swain found the city and its Department of Correction in contempt of 18 court orders aimed at remedying excessive force and improving supervision. With incidents of use of force rising from 4,652 in 2016 to 6,784 in 2023, and 33 deaths in custody since 2022, the judge emphasized the urgent need for reform. She indicated a receivership would place management under a court-appointed individual to enhance safety. The city argues it has made progress but is facing significant pressure from the courts and advocacy groups who claim improvements are insufficient. A proposal for the receivership's structure is due by January 14, as stakeholders seek a resolution to the ongoing crisis at Rikers.