ALBANY – The latest case of violence at Otisville Correctional Facility involving a prisoner has prompted State Commissioner of Corrections and Community Supervision Daniel Martuscello III to crack down with preemptive measures to rid prisons of contraband, including illicit drugs.

Calling the recent spate of illnesses to corrections officers and inmates alike from unknown substances a crisis situation, Martuscello has announced new measures.

In memos to package room staff and incarcerated persons, he said effective immediately all printed materials will be held in the package room for up to six days for an Office of Special Investigations (OSI) K-9 screening for illicit substances. All tobacco products will also be held and screened for up to six days.

The commissioner said he will for

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