A 'Crisis Situation': New Yorkers in State Prisons Are Dying By Suicide at Record Levels
(Jennifer Grismer / Unsplash)

A 'Crisis Situation': New Yorkers in State Prisons Are Dying By Suicide at Record Levels

Twenty-five people died by suicide in state prisons in 2024, the highest number since at least 2000—and the rate was seven times higher in prison isolation units, according to a new report.

Suicides in New York state prisons surged to record levels last year—and a disproportionate share of those deaths occurred while people were in de facto solitary confinement, despite a state law meant to restrict the practice. 

Twenty-five people died by suicide in New York state prisons in 2024, the highest number since at least 2000—and the rate was seven times higher in prison isolation units than the rate in non-isolation units, according to a report by the HALT Solitary Campaign and Mental Health Alternatives to Solitary Confinement set to be released this week. 


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