The Legal Aid Society is mourning the loss of James Maldonado, a former client, who passed away in New York City Department of Correction (DOC) custody this past Friday.

“We mourn the tragic deaths of two New Yorkers who died in the custody of the New York City DOC this past Friday, including James Maldonado, who we represented,” reads a statement from Legal Aid. “We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”

“Currently, we have received little information from DOC regarding the circumstances surrounding Mr. Maldonado’s death, which occurred shortly after his arraignment,” the statement continues. “Often, DOC fails to provide even the most basic details to counsel, the client’s family, or the public. This ongoing lack of transparency is unacceptable. We call for an immediate and independent investigation by the New York City Department of Investigation to ensure that both DOC and the New York City Police Department — where Mr. Maldonado spent the majority of his detention — are held accountable and provide answers to his loved ones and the public.”

Legal Aid continues to call for the closing of Rikers Island and reducing the local jail population as essential steps toward preventing the tragic deaths and daily suffering regularly reported by the incarcerated people we serve.