Statement on Rikers-Related Death of Charizma Jones

We urge the Department of Correction to swiftly investigate and publicize the findings surrounding the circumstances leading up to the death of Charizma Jones following her transfer to the hospital from Rikers Island.

It has been widely reported that medical staff were repeatedly denied access to Ms. Jones in the days leading up to her demise. The death of Ms. Jones is a stark reminder of the need to follow the legal mandate to close Rikers. The culture of impunity at Rikers Island has persisted for far too long and continues to be a stain on our city.