17 uniformed staff members at Rikers Island will face disciplinary action after a transgender woman died at the New York prison.
According to the New York Daily News, NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio said the employees will be punished for their connection to Layleen Polanco’s death while in custody.
“The death of Layleen Polanco was an incredibly painful moment for our city,” de Blasio stated.
“If the mayor wants to take meaningful action, he should start by announcing that the City will implement the two dozen reforms urged by the Board of Correction in response to Layleen’s death.”
Correction Department Commissioner Cynthia Brann says she’s also committed to the investigations and hopes this sends a message to Rikers staff regarding accountability.