(TRENTON) – In response to the news of Corrections Ombudsman Dan DiBenedetti’s forthcoming resignation after inquiries into the office’s handling of issues concerning Edna Mahan Correctional Facility, Assemblywoman Gabriela Mosquera (D-Camden, Gloucester), Chair of the Assembly Women & Children Committee, issued the following statement:
“Yesterday’s joint committee hearing revealed a concerning lack of oversight and support for inmates of Edna Mahan, despite the existence of New Jersey’s Office of the Corrections Ombudsperson. The purpose of this office is to actively serve as a neutral party that addresses concerns and complaints regarding the treatment and conditions in our prisons – yet that hasn’t been happening.
“The Ombudsperson’s office can better protect against abuse, bias and unfair treatment in our correctional facilities if inspections are properly conducted, abuse is immediately flagged, and inmates receive timely responses when they reach out for assistance.
“Going forward, I hope to see the Ombudsperson helping New Jersey achieve its goal of creating a better corrections system that treats everyone with dignity and respect.”