Council passes bill to tighten oversight after deaths in Department of Correction custody

The New York City Council approved Intro 4-23A, a bill that requires stronger oversight, transparency and procedures following a death in Department of Correction custody. The measure was adopted by a recorded vote of 38 in the affirmative, 4 in the negative and 0 abstentions.

Councilmember Carlina Rivera, sponsor of the legislation, said the bill was a direct response to families and advocates who described delays, lack of access to belongings, and secrecy around deaths in custody. Rivera told colleagues the bill "will require stronger oversight, transparency, and accountability following the death of an individual in the custody of the Department of Correction," and called for a vote in favor.

The legislation includes provisions requiring agencies to issue death notifications, conduct investigations, provide updates on misconduct cases related to deaths, and issue recommendations to prevent further deaths in custody. It also establishes a jail death review board to examine systemic issues contributing to deaths in custody.

Supporters cited a pattern of families reporting difficulty obtaining information and the council noted that 41 people had died in DOC custody since the mayor took office, according to remarks in the meeting. Sponsors said the bill is intended to create clearer rules and restore trust by requiring agencies to provide timely information to families and the public.

Intro 4-23A passed on the general orders calendar with the recorded vote noted in the council summary.