Advocacy groups and family members of inmates rallied outside the Bronx Hall of Justice Tuesday to call for the closure of Rikers Island and for the Bronx district attorney to stop requesting unpayable bail from inmates.
A large crowd filled the sidewalk after the 14th inmate died in the custody of the Department of Correction on Monday, after an attempted suicide.
Advocates say Anthony Scott died Monday, following a suicide attempt last Thursday while being held at Manhattan Criminal Court on $15,000 bail before being sent to Rikers Island.
The family of Nicholas Feliciano, who now suffers from permanent brain damage after attempting suicide at Rikers Island, wants DOC officers held accountable and for the jail to close now.
“My grandson had mental health issues, suicidal attempts and they neglected him, Nicholas never belonged at Rikers Island, and I’m seeking justice for my grandson Nicholas and for all of the lives that have been lost and the system needs to change,” said Madeline Feliciano.
Advocates are also fighting for Victor Mercado, who died last week after reported COVID-19 complications. They say his previous request for lower bail due to health challenges was denied.
The Bronx DA's Office told News 12 they had no comment on the rally.