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LAS Fights for Release of Vulnerable New Yorkers Detained at Rikers for Minor Crimes

Three LAS clients who are currently detained at Rikers Island on minor offenses and especially vulnerable to COVID-19 by virtue of their age/or respective health conditions, according to THE CITY. While roughly 1,600 people have been released from Rikers Island and other City jails due to the COVID-19 outbreak, many continue to languish in jail fearful for their lives.

Melinda Morales – who is currently charged with shoplifting from Macy’s – is currently detained on a parole hold and a $1 bail. She contracted COVID-19 just a few weeks ago at Rikers Island. Richard Seaman, a 57-year-old veteran, has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, asthma and a tear in his aorta. He is currently incarcerated on a non-violent drug charge.

The Legal Aid Society is also pushing for the release of Omar Haythe, an ailing 43-year-old being detained at Riker’s Island over the theft of an e-bike.

“He’s in grave danger of serious illness or death if he contracts COVID-19 because of his underlying medical conditions,” said his parole attorney, Kirk Stadnika. “He’s in Rikers essentially for stealing a bike.”

The infection rate within carceral settings has skyrocketed beyond the point of control. As of April 27, 2020, almost 10 percent of people incarcerated in City jails confirmed with COVID-19 infections, a percentage 5.2 times higher than New York City, 6.6 times higher than New York State, and 32.5 times higher than the rest of the country.