New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Law Enforcement Misconduct Investigative Office (LEMIO) announced a settlement with the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and Clinton County following an investigation into sexual harassment, retaliation, and gender-based discrimination against women Corrections Officers (COs), as well as misconduct involving incarcerated women at the Clinton County Jail.
The investigation, launched in February 2023, found multiple violations of sexual harassment policies by male COs and supervisors, including unwanted physical contact, sexual comments, and inappropriate relationships. Complaints by women COs were reportedly ignored or inadequately addressed, leading to retaliation and a culture discouraging further reports. Additionally, formerly incarcerated women alleged harassment and misconduct by male staff, which CCSO failed to properly document or investigate.
The Attorney General’s office also determined that the Clinton County Jail was not in compliance with the federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), designed to prevent sexual assault in correctional facilities.
Under the settlement, the CCSO has agreed to implement comprehensive reforms to improve safety and accountability at the jail. These include adopting new policies and procedures, enhancing staff training, and fully implementing PREA standards. An independent outside monitor will oversee CCSO’s compliance and report biannually to the Attorney General’s office for four years.
“This agreement puts Clinton County on the correct path forward to improve conditions and ensure a safe and secure environment for both corrections officers and incarcerated women,” said Attorney General James. “Women corrections officers should never fear showing up to work, and incarcerated women should not be afraid of those responsible for their safety.”
LEMIO was established to investigate and address law enforcement misconduct, protect civil rights, and increase public confidence in law enforcement agencies throughout New York State.
The settlement marks the first time LEMIO has reached such an agreement with a county sheriff’s office, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic issues in correctional facilities.
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