In response to Attorney General Grewal’s announcement of charges against three correctional officers at Edna Mahan Assemblywoman Vainieri Huttle issued the following statement:

Attorney General Grewal’s announcement today brings us one step closer to justice. For years, reports have emerged detailing the systemic abuses at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility.

The New Jersey legislature has stepped up to prevent these tragedies, passing my legislation to establish protocols for the investigation and reporting of these crimes. Nonetheless, the ugly history of abuse and misconduct at Edna Mahan persists.

I am pleased to see that charges have been filed against several of the correctional officers who have assaulted and injured inmates at Edna Mahan and I applaud Attorney General Grewal for his commitment to justice. Nonetheless, I renew my call that Commissioner Hicks must be put on leave.

New Jersey must become a leader in preventing abuse and neglect in our correctional facilities, we must become a leader in ensuring safety and dignity for all.