OGDENSBURG, New York (WWNY) – 7NEWS has reported a significant emergency response at Riverview Correctional Facility, located near Ogdensburg, due to challenges in managing the inmate population.

Among the responders is the New York State Corrections Emergency Response Team (CERT). The alert was received around 3 a.m. on Thursday, although issues reportedly began around 11 p.m. the previous night.

Ogdensburg City Police have cordoned off the prison entrance along State Route 37 and have deployed additional officers to the scene.

Additionally, local hospitals have been notified to increase staff and stay prepared for any potential influx of patients. For further information, click here: Prison emergency puts hospital on alert.

This situation unfolds amidst ongoing strikes by corrections officers at various facilities across New York State, where many are highlighting critical staffing shortages that have led some workers to endure grueling 20-30 hour shifts.

These strikes have not been sanctioned by the workers’ union and have been criticized by the Governor, who termed the work stoppages unlawful and emphasized that they jeopardize the safety of both staff and inmates. In a statement on Wednesday, the Governor urged corrections officers to fulfill their duties.

This incident follows a recent emergency at Collins Correctional Facility near Buffalo, where an emergency lockdown was implemented after inmates gained control of three dormitory units.

7NEWS will provide ongoing updates as this story develops.

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