Brooklyn gang member Sundance Oliver has attacked 48 prison staff members at Rikers Island. However, outdated policies prevent authorities from placing him in solitary confinement, despite his continued violent behavior. As violence rises within the prison, Oliver’s case has highlighted the critical need for stronger security measures to safeguard staff and restore order..
Escalating Violence at Rikers Island
The violent track record of Sundance Oliver, known for his gang affiliations, didn’t halt upon his incarceration at Rikers Island. With 48 alleged assaults on prison employees, his actions highlight a problem. According to the New York Post, the absence of solitary confinement options has exacerbated these security challenges. The Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association emphasizes the immediacy of beefing up security measures.
https://t.co/d7nxYPsZ8A We may be at peak "NYC criminal justice is an absolute joke" level. Rikers remains worse than NYS prison…
— Bederow Law (@Bederowlaw) February 26, 2025
“Just in the span of one week two female correction officers and one male correction officer were assaulted in unprovoked attacks by one of the most violent criminals in our custody,” Benny Boscio said.
“With these high-visibility and comprehensive measures, we send a clear message to the gangs and violent persons in custody behind the recent attacks against our officers: We aren’t tolerating it.” – Department of Correction Commissioner Cynthia Brann.
REPORT: Brooklyn gang member charged with double m—er has attacked 48 officers and staff at Rikers Island
Sundance Oliver, 30 has been locked up since cops said he went on a deadly and violent crime spree in 2022
His latest victim, a civilian employee, says she’s left… pic.twitter.com/bbsucQiOL8
— Unlimited L's (@unlimited_ls) February 27, 2025
The Need for Swift Reform
New York State reports reveal a staggering rise in inmate-on-inmate assaults and weapon offenses. Despite the density of the prison population, a minority of dangerous individuals like Oliver disproportionate the risk. Stress reduction and trauma-informed programs, along with the implementation of fair investigation practices, are suggested to alleviate pervasive PTSD among officers and inmates.
Deploying emergency response units and improving coordination with the NYPD are among the prioritized strategies. Increasing the use of Tasers and enhancing intelligence-sharing exemplify an approach aiming to curb violence comprehensively rather than through piecemeal action.
Securing the Future
While most inmates comply with the rules, violent episodes by a few individuals are challenging the entire system. Addressing the root causes through informed care and staff training alongside structured policies can dilute the pattern of violence. With $4.5 million allocated for security enhancements, correction facilities are moving toward a safer environment for personnel and prisoners.
“Correction work has always been challenging, but never so deadly.” – David A. Fullard, Ph.D.
The consistent application of safety measures needs to showcase not only efficiency in maintaining control but also compassion in addressing mental health issues that underpin much of the prison violence, setting a precedent for reform.