A Rikers Island inmate died in an apparent drug overdose, sources told the Daily News on Friday.
A correction officer touring a housing area at the George R. Vierno Center discovered 34-year-old Jose Mejia Martinez unresponsive at around 4 p.m. on Thursday, sources said.
The officer quickly called for emergency medical attention. Medical staff pronounced Mejia Martinez dead in the housing area.
The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner will determine the exact cause of death.
“Our condolences go out to this individual’s loved ones during this difficult time,” Correction Department Commissioner Vincent Schiraldi said in a statement. “The safety and well-being of all who are placed in our custody is always our top priority, and a full investigation is underway.”
Lorraine McEvilley, director of the Parole Revocation Defense Unit at The Legal Aid Society said that Martinez was being held on a technical parole violation.
“Mr. Mejia Martinez’s tragic death is the latest example underscoring the importance of recently passed Less Is More [Act], awaiting Governor Cuomo’s signature, that aims to abolish mandatory detention for non-criminal technical parole violations,” said McEvilley, referring to a bill passed by state lawmakers on Thursday that promises to reduce reincarceration based on technical parole violations.
“Our hearts ache for Mr. [Mejia] Martinez’s family and his community, and we call for immediate answers from the City regarding his untimely and sudden passing.”
Mejia Martinez is the fifth person who has died this year while in Correction Department custody.