The Collins Correctional Facility incident, which resulted in a facility-wide lockdown, highlights the growing crisis within the state’s prison system. The episode has reignited debates about prison reform and the need for comprehensive measures to address the challenges facing New York’s correctional facilities. What led to the lockdown at Collins Correctional Facility?
Lockdown Triggered by Contraband Discovery
The Collins Correctional Facility in Erie County, New York, was placed on lockdown after inmates barricaded themselves in dormitories. This action followed the discovery of contraband, including two cell phones, when an inmate attempted to discard the items.
Correctional Emergency Response Teams (CERT) and the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision’s Office of Special Investigations were swiftly deployed to manage the escalating situation. Commissioner Daniel F. Martuscello III activated emergency protocols, including negotiating teams, to restore order.
Another load of wood arrives from residents near Collins Correctional in Gowanda in support of striking Corrections Officers, some of whom are being fined 2 days pay for every day they’re out. They’re fed up with working often 16, sometimes 24 hour shifts @WGRZ pic.twitter.com/oY2yaA4Zew
— Dave McKinley (@DaveMcKinley2) February 17, 2025
Resolution and Aftermath
The incident was resolved through the use of force, resulting in the recovery of the contraband cell phones. One corrections officer sustained a minor injury but returned to duty, while no inmates were reported injured during the operation.
Following the resolution, the facility remained on lockdown pending a full facility frisk to ensure safety and security. The duration of the lockdown is currently unknown, as authorities continue to assess the situation.
The strike outside of Collins Correctional Facility has significantly grown in size within the past few hours. More CO's are expected to show up as the day progresses. pic.twitter.com/DjzUrVhdbr
— WBEN NewsRadio 930AM (@WBEN) February 17, 2025
Underlying Issues in the Prison System
This incident has brought to light the ongoing staffing crisis within New York’s correctional system. The New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association (NYSCOPBA) reports a shortage of over 2,100 correctional officers and sergeants.
Kenny Gold, the NYSCOPBA Western Region Vice President, stated, “The actions that we see like what happened and what has transpired today is strictly only because they know there’s no penalty and the politicians making the changes; they’re making the changes to better the convicts, not to make it safer for the staff that work in there every day.”
Chris Summers, union president, emphasized that prison closures aimed at saving money have prioritized budget concerns over staff safety. The past year saw 1,600 corrections officers leave their positions while the inmate population increased by 2,100.
The union has criticized recent policy changes, including the closure of prisons and regulations limiting disciplinary actions against violent inmates. These changes, they argue, have contributed to a significant rise in assaults on staff over the past five years.
In response to these challenges, state lawmakers are proposing bills to tighten oversight in state prisons. Governor Hochul has pledged measures to improve conditions, including establishing a recruitment unit and increasing starting salaries for correction officers.
As the situation at Collins Correctional Facility continues to develop, it serves as a stark reminder of the complex issues facing New York’s prison system and the urgent need for comprehensive reform to ensure the safety of both staff and inmates.