Former Collins Correctional inmate shares concerns

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Correction officers have been on strike since Monday, Feb. 17. Following the first inmate death since the strikes began, one former inmate shared his concerns about the ongoing situation inside New York prisons.

WIVB News 4 spoke with a former inmate from Collins Correctional. He said that non-violent deaths in prisons are common, but he’s worried that the strikes may lead to more issues in general.

“I am very concerned about my friends. I think about them every single day, about what’s going on,” said the former inmate.

The former inmate, who wished to remain anonymous, spent the better part of three years at Collins Correctional Facility. He was released just days before the recent lockdown and subsequent strikes.

He said the strike has left him in a constant state of worry for those behind bars.

“Whether they’re eating properly, whether they’re getting medical attention, whether there’s proper supervision,” the former inmate said.

The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision is investigating the death at the Auburn Correctional Facility. A spokesperson said all inmate deaths are reviewed by DOCCS.

“I’d say I’m more concerned about what was going on before that happened. Was he a victim of something, did he have medical conditions? Was there a lack of supervision because of all the striking stuff,” said the former inmate.

The former inmate said he was incarcerated with multiple medical conditions that, according to him, were left disregarded. He said it’s a trend he saw happen to others as well.

We have reached out to the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association and DOCCS for any further comments or updates on the strike. Both said the strike is status quo and to expect an update on Monday. An independent mediator is being brought in on Monday to assist in bringing a resolution to the strike.

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Dillon Morello is a reporter from Pittsburgh who has been part of the News 4 team since September of 2023. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.

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