TOWN OF MALONE, New York (WWNY) – On January 29, 2025, Upstate Correctional Facility was placed on lockdown after a third incident involving staff exposure to an unknown substance. At least four staff members were hospitalized following symptoms that required the administration of Narcan.
- Third incident at Upstate Correctional Hospitalized staff.
- Narcan administered to affected employees.
- Facility placed on lockdown for safety.
- Drug sniffing dogs will assist in search.
- Union demands investigation into substance exposure.
- Previous incidents involved over 20 staff members.
The state announced the lockdown as a precaution for the safety of staff and inmates. The facility will undergo a thorough search with drug-sniffing dogs, and visitations have been suspended during this time.
This recent incident follows two previous occurrences where more than two dozen staff members experienced similar health issues related to exposure inside the prison. Union officials suspect that these incidents are linked to synthetic drugs smuggled into the facility.
Key details include:
- Four staff members sent to hospital on January 29.
- Narcan administered due to lightheadedness and vomiting.
- Lockdown initiated for safety and security measures.
The ongoing search aims to identify any dangerous substances present within the prison walls. John Roberts, Vice President of the NYS Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, emphasized the need for action, stating that it is crucial to determine the source of these exposures before they lead to fatalities.
This lockdown comes amid growing concerns about safety protocols within correctional facilities. The situation remains under close observation as authorities work diligently to ensure a secure environment for both staff and inmates.
The Upstate Correctional Facility’s response underscores its commitment to prioritizing safety amidst rising health risks associated with unknown substances entering prison environments. Further updates will follow as investigations continue.
