Nassau County, NY - Nassau County Executive Laura Curran and Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder outlined the operational plan for the release pre-trial detainees from Nassau County Correctional Facility on December 31, 2019 required under new bail reform laws. The announcement was made at the Nassau County Third Police Precinct, which serves the areas surrounding the Nassau County Correctional Facility in East Meadow.
“My number one focus is keeping protecting our residents while enforcing the law. Crime is at historic lows and the continued safety of our residents is crucial. I want to make sure all residents know that all Nassau County agencies have been extremely diligent in preparing for the successful and smooth transition to the new bail reform laws, with the safety of our residents and our law enforcement as the guidepost,” said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran.
Comprehensive Release Plan
Earlier this year, County Executive Curran directed agencies to prepare for the safe and orderly transition to the new bail reform laws. Across all impacted departments, the County has been developing a robust plan to effectively comply with these new laws. This includes an increase of staffing levels on December 31st at the Sheriff’s Department to facilitate a higher than average number of discharges.
The County will work to assist all pre-trial detainees to be able travel to their post release destinations by; increasing accessibility for pre-trial detainees to make phone calls to make travel arrangements, a plan to control the parking lot during family pickups, and increased NICE bus service on December 31 along the route that runs on Carman Avenue in East Meadow to accommodate individuals who need transportation back home. To ensure everyone has a place to go, Department of Social Services (DSS) will be able to step in for assistance to find temporary housing.
The Sheriff’s Department is also currently working with DSS to ensure that individuals will be released with any necessary services they may need. DSS has provided jail staff with information regarding the types of services available and the criteria for eligibility for those services as well as applications for services. Individuals who are identified for release can begin the application process immediately.
The safety of the residents in the area is vital which is why the Nassau County Police Department will have increased patrols on December 31st and January 1, 2020 to ensure the smooth transition of this process.
Going Forward
Coordination between the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office, Police Department and Probation will be ongoing to monitor compliance with court appearance schedules and discovery requirements.
“I’ll be closely monitoring the transition to these new bail reform laws and will maintain constant contact with all departments effected to ensure we are taking every step possible to ensure the residents’ safety,” said Nassau County Executive Laura Curran.