Summary:
In 2025, at least eleven people have died in the custody of the New York City Department of Correction (DOC) — including multiple deaths at the Rikers Island complex within a two-week span. According to reporting by the Vera Institute of Justice, “three people died at Rikers in the last two weeks… deaths in New York City jails have already more than doubled last year’s total.” (Sep 8 2025) Vera Institute of Justice
Advocates rallied ahead of a board meeting, with one speaker saying, “These are real heart beats,” as families demand change. News 12 – Default
Why it matters:
When individuals are held in city custody, they retain their constitutional rights — including the right to reasonable medical care and safe conditions. A spike in in-custody deaths raises serious questions about compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and 42 U.S.C. § 1983 enforcement. The fact that deaths have more than doubled and the DOC’s own numbers may under-report the toll adds urgency to calls for a federal takeover, as documented by the New York City Bar Association and other oversight groups. New York City Bar Association+1
What families should do:
- Document everything: names of correctional staff, cell location, surveillance camera info, time of death or medical event.
- Request records immediately, such as incident reports, medical logs, and “log book” entries.
- Speak with counsel early, because notice requirements in custody-death or civil-rights cases are strict and evidence can vanish fast.
- Explore parallel claims: If a medical emergency preceded death (e.g., seizure, untreated condition, injury) you may also have a medical-malpractice or negligence claim.
If your loved one died or was injured while in custody at Rikers Island or another NYC correctional facility, our experienced attorneys can review your case and explain your legal rights.
212-384-0211 or info@glichtmanlaw.com.
