Results for: Rikers Island

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has confirmed that Rikers Island, the city’s largest prison, is prepared to receive former President Donald Trump if he is ordered to serve time in jail during his ongoing trial in Manhattan. The former president is facing charges of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made to adult film actress Stormy Daniels during his 2016 presidential campaign. Trump has repeatedly denied the alleged affair with Daniels and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Presiding Judge Juan Merchan has threatened Trump with jail time if he continues to violate a gag order imposed during the trial. Trump has criticized the order as unconstitutional and expressed willingness to serve jail time to protect the Constitution. If Trump is sentenced to jail, the Secret Service has reportedly initiated internal discussions on handling his potential transfer to prison.

A recent investigation has revealed that less than 15% of inmate complaints filed in Rikers Island over the past four years have been formally resolved, including shocking allegations of sexual assault. The analysis, conducted by the City Council’s Committee on Criminal Justice, highlights the systemic issues plaguing the jail’s grievance process and the alarming rise in complaints per 100 inmates in custody.

Inside the notorious Rikers Island jail, a group of Jewish inmates like Howard Padilla find respite and community through regular prayer services, thanks to the efforts of Jewish chaplains and young volunteers from the Base communal space. These volunteers bring company, conversation, and Torah learning to some of the city’s most isolated citizens, alleviating the harsh conditions of incarceration and fostering a sense of belonging.