News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: March 1, 2024

NYCDOC becomes the DOJ Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center’s First-Ever Correctional Partner

CRI-TAC training and technical assistance provides people-focused expertise in training and support to law enforcement agencies across the country

The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) is proud to announce its new partnership with the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC). Founded in 2017, CRI-TAC is a solutions-oriented program designed to assist law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve with identifying and implementing bespoke improvements and reforms through customized training, consultations, peer-based learning, analysis, and in-depth assessments. Since its formation, CRI-TAC has supported more than 1,000 law enforcement organizations nationwide however, this partnership with DOC marks the first time they have lent their expertise to a correctional institution.

“At DOC, we recognize the impact well-trained officers make in providing care to those in our custody, which is why we are grateful to be selected by CRI-TAC and have access to their expertise, insight, and resources,” said DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie. “Being chosen for this partnership means that DOJ sees the same thing I see in our staff: tremendous potential, deep commitment, and the desire to do right by those in our care. I am incredibly excited to see the benefits this program will bring to our jails.”

CRI-TAC experts have already begun meeting with DOC’s Training and Development Division's leadership to identify areas of need best suited for federal resources. Meetings and visits will continue throughout the year, culminating with recommendations from CRI-TAC on tangible improvements that can be made to support DOC’s training and operations.

CRI-TAC is a part of the DOJ’s commitment to ensuring that law enforcement agencies across the nation serve all people with fair, equitable, and effective public safety practices. CRI-TAC has supported more than 75 agencies in New York state and six in New York City. An interactive map showing agencies nationwide that have partnered with CRI-TAC can be found HERE.

About CRI-TAC:
The Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center (CRI-TAC), in partnership with the Department of Justice’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services and nine other leading law enforcement agencies, provides customized training and technical assistance to state, local, tribal, territorial, and campus agencies throughout the United States. These services are delivered at no cost to the agency. Built to meet the diverse needs of law enforcement agencies today, the CRI-TAC works to develop solutions specifically tailored to the agency, allowing the agency to play an active role in the problem-solving process. The CRI-TAC provides a collaborative and comprehensive process in which subject matter experts from the field help the agency reach the forefront of cutting-edge innovation and evidence-based practices.

***

The New York City Department of Correction (DOC) is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment while providing individuals in our care with a path to successfully re-enter their communities.