Formerly Incarcerated Person to Lead NYC Dept of Correction

Stanley Richards, a former prisoner, appointed as new commissioner by Mayor Zohran Mamdani.

Feb. 1, 2026 at 8:07pm

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New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has appointed Stanley Richards, a formerly incarcerated individual, as the new commissioner of the Department of Correction. Richards previously served time in prison for robbery in the late 1980s but later became the first deputy commissioner at the Correction Department four years ago and also led "The Fortune Society," helping people reenter daily life after jail and promoting alternatives to incarceration.

Why it matters

This historic appointment of a formerly incarcerated person to lead the city's Department of Correction is seen as a significant step towards criminal justice reform and providing a voice for those who have experienced the system firsthand. It signals the mayor's commitment to improving conditions in the city's jail system and supporting both incarcerated individuals and the staff who serve them.

The details

Mayor Mamdani welcomed Richards to his administration, stating that his achievement is "not merely symbolic" but a "testament to the thought and leadership he will bring to every member of Correction staff and incarcerated New Yorkers." Richards said that under Mamdani's leadership, they will "chart a path of hope, healing and transformation." The mayor's office also noted that Richards will lead the DOC at a pivotal moment, with a clear mandate and strong support to improve conditions, close Rikers Island, and ensure the department delivers on its core responsibility to care for people in custody and support the staff.

  • Stanley Richards previously served time in prison for robbery in the late 1980s.
  • Richards became the first deputy commissioner at the Correction Department four years ago.
  • Mayor Zohran Mamdani appointed Richards as the new commissioner on February 2, 2026.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The mayor of New York City who appointed Stanley Richards as the new commissioner of the Department of Correction.

Stanley Richards

A formerly incarcerated individual who has been appointed as the new commissioner of the New York City Department of Correction. He previously served time in prison for robbery in the late 1980s and later became the first deputy commissioner at the Correction Department four years ago, as well as the leader of "The Fortune Society" which helps people reenter daily life after jail and promotes alternatives to incarceration.

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What’s next

Richards will immediately begin working to improve conditions in New York City's jail system, with a focus on closing Rikers Island and ensuring the Department of Correction delivers on its core responsibilities to care for incarcerated individuals and support its staff.

The takeaway

The appointment of a formerly incarcerated person to lead the New York City Department of Correction represents a significant step towards criminal justice reform, providing a voice for those who have experienced the system firsthand and signaling the mayor's commitment to improving conditions and supporting both incarcerated individuals and correctional staff.