New York City’s already notorious jail system is experiencing a substantial uptick in violence, according to city data — highlighting one of the biggest challenges facing the next mayor.

According to updated findings released by the city recently, the rate of violent incidents among people in custody climbed nearly 10% in the last fiscal year over the year before, while serious injuries rose 12%. The increase was even sharper for correction department staff, who saw assaults rise 31% and serious injuries rise 21%.

The numbers come amid increasing chaos on Rikers Island and uncertainty around the jail complex’s future. A federal judge stripped the city of full control over Rikers in May, citing “unprecedented” levels of violence and disorder. A plan to close the facility and build new

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