NEW YORK – The Vera Institute of Justice and the New York City Bar Association filed a friend-of-the-court brief in Nunez v. City of New York, calling for the appointment of a truly independent federal receiver to oversee Rikers Island. This brief responds to the court’s recent Contempt Order requesting further information on the structure, authority, and appointment process of a receivership for the troubled jail complex.

Rikers Island has a long history of dangerous conditions for incarcerated individuals and staff, including frequent violence, inadequate health care, and persistent overcrowding. Despite years of federal oversight, previous attempts at reform have been stymied by systemic resistance from various stakeholders, making independent oversight essential. The brief argues that only a receiver completely independent of New York City’s government can effectively address these deep-seated issues.

“The nearly decade-long federal monitorship has failed to achieve lasting change because of entrenched political, social, and legal constraints. A receiver must be free from political pressure. Their sole focus must be on doing what is necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of those at Rikers, regardless of the views of the mayor or any other entity,” said Alana Sivin, Director of Vera’s Greater Justice New York initiative.

The brief underscores the need for a receiver’s mandate to align with New York City’s legal obligation to close Rikers Island, ensuring that systemic failures are not simply transferred to new jail facilities.

“The Department of Correction has repeatedly failed to act when reforms conflict with political considerations. A truly independent receiver is the only way to break this cycle and ensure real accountability. This will ensure that the problems on Rikers Island are not exported to the new jails,” wrote Sivin. The New York City Council submitted a letter reinforcing this point, stating that, “if a receiver is appointed, the receiver’s powers and goals should all align with—and further—the legally mandated closure of Rikers.”

The Vera Institute of Justice and New York City Bar Association urge the court to appoint a receiver who is truly independent, capable of implementing necessary reforms, and committed to ensuring that the crisis at Rikers does not persist beyond the facility’s closure.

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About the Vera Institute of Justice: The Vera Institute of Justice works to transform the justice system to ensure fairness, dignity, and safety for all. Through research, advocacy, and policy reform, Vera is committed to ending mass incarceration and improving conditions for those impacted by the criminal legal system.

About the New York City Bar Association: The New York City Bar Association, founded in 1870, is dedicated to improving the administration of justice and promoting legal reform. Through its committees and advocacy, the City Bar works to advance policies that uphold the rule of law and protect human rights.