Saratoga Standard

Jim Tedisco, a vocal critic of New York's handling of its prison system, has openly criticized Governor Kathy Hochul for her recent decision involving the state's correctional facilities. The governor plans to release convicts early due to understaffing, a situation Tedisco blames on her refusal to ensure safe working conditions for correction officers, compounded by the firing of over 2,000 personnel.

Tedisco called the plan "a recipe for disaster for public safety" and an affront to crime victims, as 110 days are being reduced from inmates' sentences. He questioned whether the governor could compensate the victims for their lost peace of mind. Additionally, he criticized her for not focusing on achieving an on-time state budget.

Further, Tedisco condemned the mobilization of the National Guard to fill in for correction officers, arguing they are being put at risk in roles they are not trained for. He urged the governor to return to negotiations, rehire the dismissed correctional officers, and maintain convicts in prison.