Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Justyna Rzewinski, a former clinical supervisor for mental health at Rikers Island, has taken on the role of an advocate for detainees with severe mental illnesses. Recently, she testified before a city jail oversight board regarding "deadlocking," a practice where detainees are confined to their cells for extended periods without adequate access to medications or mental health care.
Rzewinski left her position at Rikers Island three weeks ago and has since been vocal about the issues faced by mentally ill detainees. Her testimony was part of a public meeting held by the NYC Board of Correction. She also shared her insights in interviews with Spectrum News NY1 and was featured in two articles by The Daily News.
The issue of deadlocking raises significant concerns about the treatment and well-being of individuals within the correctional system, particularly those suffering from mental health conditions. Rzewinski's advocacy aims to bring attention to these practices and push for necessary reforms.
Her full testimony can be viewed during the NYC Board of Correction Public Meeting, starting at the 22-minute mark. Additionally, her interview with Spectrum News NY1 provides further details on this pressing issue.
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