Saratoga Standard

On January 27, 2025, Senator Stec expressed his concern over the recent synthetic drug exposure incidents at Upstate Correctional Facility in Malone. The incidents have severely affected nearly two dozen correction officers and civilian staff.

"I'm extremely concerned about the apparent synthetic drug exposure at Upstate Correctional Facility in Malone that's caused severe illness to nearly two dozen correction officers and civilian staff," stated Senator Stec. He emphasized that those working under challenging conditions should not also face unknown illegal drug exposures.

Stec highlighted the need to identify how inmates are smuggling drugs into the facility and urged for measures to stop it, as it endangers the lives of correction officers, civilian staff, and other inmates. He criticized what he perceives as neglect by state government leaders toward correctional facilities, resulting in understaffing and unsafe conditions.

"We must know how inmates are smuggling in contraband drugs and put a stop to it," said Stec. "An investigation should only be the beginning."

Senator Stec announced plans to visit Upstate Correctional Facility on Thursday to meet with staff affected by these incidents. He is a sponsor of legislation aiming to repeal HALT and supports providing resources for correction officers' safety.

"As a sponsor of legislation to repeal HALT and a proud supporter of our correction officers, I’ll keep working to provide our COs and civilian staff with the resources and support they need to protect themselves and others," he added.