Lower Convictions for Inmates who Assault NY Public Employee

Alton Hutchinson assault trial ended with a judgment that disappointed the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF). Hutchinson, a former Elmira Correctional Facility inmate was acquitted of the most serious charges and found guilty of 2 second-degree assault charges when he assaulted female counselor in her office. A corrections officer and co-worker discovered the attack in progress, came to her aid and ultimately may have saved her life. In a statement from PEF, “We are concerned the verdict sends the wrong message to inmates that they can continue to commit crimes while incarcerated. All too often, our members are told violence is part of the job. Getting punched, kicked or abused should not be part of anyone's job." Earlier, Governor Pataki vetoed a workplace violence prevention bill supported by PEF and passed by both houses of the Legislature. The bill would have required public employers to assess their workplaces and develop and implement prevention programs.