Rikers Island Reform: Legal Rulings and Systemic Challenges

This chapter explores the recent judge's ruling on the class action lawsuit impacting Rikers Island and all New York City jails, focusing on complex, interrelated issues within the correctional system. It highlights critical areas of concern such as staffing practices, management of inmates, and the ongoing need for accountability, revealing the ongoing disconnect despite sufficient funding. The discussion underscores the broader implications of systemic dysfunction and the necessity for cultural change in order to safeguard the rights and safety of incarcerated individuals.