Rikers Island: A Statement from Governor's Counsel Alphonso David

"The indictment of 29 alleged gang members for attacks on inmates and staff at Rikers Island is yet another stark example of why this jail complex must be shut down—and 10 years is too long to wait.

"Rikers is a savage and inhumane jail that has ruined the lives of too many New Yorkers. Most of its 7,000 inmates have not been found guilty of anything and are simply waiting for their day in court—some of them waiting for years. Many are subject to violence and abuse, as underscored by the charges brought by the Bronx District Attorney's office.

"This year, New York State ensured the majority of 16 and 17-year-olds will be removed from Rikers Island. It's time that New York City step up to the plate with a real plan to close this jail on a rapidly accelerated timeline.

"Saying it will take 10 years is tantamount to saying we have no real plan to close it. 10 years may see three different Mayors and three different City Councils. This proposed closing plan will have no relevance to those administrations—Governor Cuomo, for example, is not 10 years later implementing Governor Spitzer's plans.

"ln short, this 10-year timeline ignores the urgent need for action now. 10 years condemns thousands more young people to be abused by Rikers. How many people have to die and how many lives have to be ruined to make government act? We need action now."

Source: Press Office, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo