The Thorn

Local News

Mayor Bill de Blasio visited Rikers Island on Monday amid growing scrutiny into deplorable conditions at the jail complex. It was his first trip there in more than four years, and he did not speak to detainees or staff.
Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance has directed prosecutors not to ask for bail in nonviolent cases, so as not to increase the Rikers population.
After advocating for and approving the project in 2017, Council Member Laurie Cumbo called the Bedford Union Armory development a “failure” after its developers failed to follow through on providing a significant number of discount rec center memberships for the Crown Heights community.
De Blasio launched an investigation following the revelation that several active NYPD officers are members of the far-right anti-government militia group the Oath Keepers.
Responding to concerns that officers are rude to civilians, the NYPD will soon begin hiring civilian “greeters,” who will be charged with intaking residents who come into precincts in a “respectful” way.
Following a temporary block on the matter, a federal judge ruled that the vaccine mandate for NYC public school employees can remain in place.
Despite concerns about massive staff shortages, New York State’s vaccine mandate for healthcare workers has not led to mass resignations and has significantly increased the numbers of vaccinated workers in the field.

Jumaane Williams told New York Magazine he is “seriously considering” running for governor. Attorney General Letitia James has not announced a run for governor, but has been making several campaign-like appearances.
Inez and Charles Barron are throwing their support behind former staffer Keron Alleyne to replace Charles in Assembly District 60 (East New York), after nearly 20 years of the Barrons controlling both East New York Assembly and City Council seats.