The Daily Getting Off Rikers Island
Apr 23, 2020
Alan Feuer, a criminal justice reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into the troubling situation at Rikers Island during the COVID-19 pandemic. He discusses the harrowing conditions prisoners face amidst a health crisis and the difficult decisions made regarding inmate releases. The poignant story of Mitch Pomerantz, a vulnerable inmate grappling with health issues, underscores the ethical dilemmas judges encounter. Feuer's insights illuminate the intersection of public safety and inmate health, raising critical questions about justice in challenging times.
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Mitch's Story
- Mitch Pomerantz, a 54-year-old inmate at Rikers Island, has pre-existing health issues and is trying to get released due to COVID-19.
- His dormmate tested positive, highlighting unsanitary conditions and lack of cleaning.
Release Criteria
- Rikers Island has released 650 inmates, primarily those with non-violent offenses, short sentences, or parole violations.
- Mitch's violent offender status complicates his release despite his vulnerability.
Public Safety vs. Health
- Mitch's case highlights the tension between public safety and individual health in inmate release decisions.
- Judges grapple with whether his past violent offenses outweigh his medical vulnerability.