Our Mission

The Independent Rikers Commission seeks to help the City of New York close the jail complex on Rikers Island, improve safety and the functioning of the criminal justice system, safely reduce the use of unnecessary incarceration, develop state-of-the-art, borough-based jail facilities and secure treatment beds, and repurpose Rikers as a hub of green infrastructure to serve all New Yorkers. 

Commission Members

The Commission, chaired by former Chief Judge of the State of New York Jonathan Lippman, is an independent body of experts, policymakers, and advocates from a variety of backgrounds, including corrections, law enforcement, victims’ services, the judiciary, academia, service providers, business, and those who have spent time behind bars.

 

FOUNDER

 

ADVISORY COUNCIL

 

STAFF