“Monterey Shock is the prime example of what correction facilities are supposed to be. It has a greater than 80 percent graduation rate and only a seven percent recidivism rate. The inmates are provided with an opportunity for drug counseling; a high percentage of inmates successfully complete their GED; and they develop discipline, respect and a strong and successful work ethic.

“Additionally, the inmates provide services for the nearby municipalities, non-profits and even for the state. The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) doesn’t have the money or manpower to pick up the cost of this lost service. Since the last class graduated in January, those inmates who would have been eligible for shock have been housed at maximum security prisons like Elmira to continue maintaining the grounds. This poses several problems.

“The shock-eligible inmates are allowed to leave the prison to do their work. They are housed alongside the maximum security prisoners since DOCCS does not have the money to modify the prison. This is dangerous and a potential security risk for the inmates and the correction officers. There has been an increase in contraband in the prison since this arrangement has occurred. This is a poor substitute for a system that was effective and helped return individuals to productive and quality lives. The governor should reconsider his decision to close Monterey Shock on July 26th.”