The Fortune Society Issues Statement Regarding Another Disturbing Death at a New York State Prison

The Fortune Society (Fortune) issued the following statement in response to the death of Messiah Nantwi, the seventh incarcerated person to die in a New York State prison since the illegal wildcat strikes by corrections officers began on February 17, 2025:

“The death of Messiah Nantwi at New York State’s Mid-State Correctional Facility, is a heartbreaking tragedy that underscores a system failing to protect those in its custody and care. The loss of life in our correctional system is deeply painful, and we cannot allow ourselves to grow numb to it. Each death is a tragedy that leaves families shattered, and every life lost is a reminder of the human cost of a broken system. Families deserve the chance to welcome their loved ones home; they shouldn’t have to mourn their untimely deaths. The people in the care of New York State Corrections and its officers are not sentenced to death; they are there to serve their sentences, not to have their lives taken. We must ask ourselves: How long will we allow this to continue? How many more lives must be lost before we confront and hold accountable those who are entrusted with human life?

The accounts of incarcerated individuals, who have shown remarkable courage in sharing their stories despite the risks, paint a troubling and painful picture of Mr. Nantwi’s last hours. This is not just another incident to be forgotten. It is a loss that demands accountability for Messiah Nantwi and for all those who have tragically died in similar circumstances. Enough is enough. The Fortune Society calls for a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of Messiah Nantwi. If there is body camera footage or any other visual or audio recordings of the events surrounding Mr. Nantwi’s death, they must be released to the public with full transparency.

At The Fortune Society, we are committed to fighting for a justice system that prioritizes life, dignity, and humanity. We stand with the families who mourn and the communities who suffer. The need for accountability and reform has never been clearer.”