The Justice and Reform Plan includes sections on ending mass incarceration, strengthening oversight and accountability, addressing systemic racial bias, and healing the relationship between the public and the police

KINGSTON, N.Y. - County Executive Pat Ryan signed the final plan from the Ulster County Justice and Reform Commission, approved by the Ulster County Legislature. The Commission, convened by County Executive Ryan back in June, held three public Town Halls and has collected hundreds of comments from the community on how to create reforms to reshape and reimagine our criminal justice system in Ulster County. 

“At every level of government we must commit to meaningful, systemic reform and ensure that we provide equal justice for all of our residents,” County Executive Pat Ryan said. “I am proud to sign this plan and want to thank our Justice and Reform Commission for their hard work, dedication, and for providing a voice for so many in our community who have marched, written letters, and demanded reforms.”

The Justice and Reform Plan includes sections on ending mass incarceration, strengthening oversight and accountability, addressing systemic racial bias, and healing the relationship between the public and the police. Suggestions range from reducing the staff and population at the Ulster County Jail to the establishment of Regional Community Advisory Boards on policing. 

“Creating a plan that addresses systemic racism and bias is the first step to creating a more just and fair community. I look forward to continuing this great work as we execute the many reforms in this plan.” Lester Strong, Executive Director Peaceful Guardians Project.

The commission was created in response to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s Executive Order 203 which declared that every municipality with a police agency must perform a comprehensive review of current police force practices. 

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