NEW YORK (WKBW) — The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision announced Saturday visitation at facilities statewide has been suspended.
The suspension of visitation begins Saturday March 14th at 5 p.m. and will last until April 11th.
The department says the action is in response to the coronavirus.
"The Department’s greatest concern is the safety and well-being of our employees and individuals within our care, custody, and supervision, particularly during this developing public health emergency. To that end, the Department must swiftly impose restrictions and precautions to prevent additional spread of infectious viral transmission of COVID-19 in both correctional facilities and the community writ large."
During the suspension of visitation the department will offer the following services to incarcerated individuals:
· Five (5) free stamps per week for use in accordance with Directive #4422, “Inmate Correspondence Program,”
· Two (2) free secure messages per week via electronic tablet, and
· One (1) free phone call per week in accordance with Directive #4423 “Inmate Telephone Calls.”
Legal visits will not be impacted by the suspension but will be conducted as "non-contact."
"The Department takes seriously its duty to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those that work, visit and live in our correctional facilities, as well as those who supervise or are supervised in the greater community of New York. During this difficult time, the Department is appreciative of everyone’s patience and understanding as we continue to face this virus together."
