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Abstract: 

A four-month investigation by the New York Times into abuse at Rikers Island revealed an even more devastating picture than those outside of its walls could imagine. The Times reporters uncovered a secret internal study by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene that lays bare the culture of brutality on the island and makes clear that it is inmates with mental illnesses who absorb the overwhelming brunt of the violence. This article examines the lessons for professionals whose responsbilities include the care of individuals with severe mental disability—among the most challenging populations to manage and assist.

Keywords: Freedom of Information Law; violence against inmates by corrections staff; witness intimidation; increased personal injury claims activity; deaths of mentally ill inmates; limited capital; no explanation for the rise in systematic physical abuse of i

Affiliations:  1: Editor.