The New York Attorney General’s Law Enforcement Misconduct Investigative Office (LEMIO) has reached a settlement with the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) and Clinton County following an investigation into sexual harassment, retaliation, and gender-based discrimination involving women corrections officers and allegations of misconduct toward incarcerated women at the Clinton County Jail in Plattsburgh.
Attorney General Letitia James stated, “Women corrections officers should never fear showing up to work and incarcerated women should not be afraid of the individuals responsible for their safety. This agreement puts Clinton County on the correct path forward to improve conditions and ensure a safe and secure environment for both corrections officers and incarcerated women. I thank the Clinton County Sheriff’s Office for its willingness to work together to address reports of misconduct and harassment and implement real changes to improve conditions.”
LEMIO began its investigation in February 2023 after receiving complaints about jail operations. The review included examining CCSO records, visiting the facility, and interviewing employees as well as individuals formerly incarcerated there.
Findings from the investigation revealed that in 2021, several women corrections officers reported ongoing sexual harassment—such as unwanted physical contact, sexual comments, and requests for sexual acts—to supervisors. The Clinton County Department of Personnel determined these reports were not addressed according to county policy. Two male corrections officers were found to have violated this policy; one resigned while another officer and a sergeant who had a sexual relationship with a subordinate were disciplined but kept their jobs. Women COs told investigators they faced retaliation after making complaints.
The investigation also found that formerly incarcerated women alleged inappropriate behavior by male staff, including groping, unwanted touching, brushing against them, and making sexual comments. While some allegations had been previously brought to CCSO’s attention, documentation was lacking or incomplete regarding how these grievances were handled.
Additionally, LEMIO determined that the jail was not compliant with the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA), which is intended to prevent sexual assault in correctional facilities.
Under the terms of the settlement with OAG, CCSO will introduce new policies and procedures aimed at preventing misconduct against both staff and those incarcerated. These measures include additional training programs, development of strategic plans subject to LEMIO approval, implementation of PREA standards at the jail, and appointment of an independent outside monitor for four years who will report on compliance twice annually.
LEMIO was created under Executive Law 75 to promote public safety by investigating law enforcement misconduct and ensuring adherence to constitutional protections as well as local, state, and federal laws. The office may also pursue civil litigation if necessary.
