Full Breakdown
Concerns Rise at Manhattan Psychiatric Center Amid Elevator Failures
12/6/2025, 10:19:27 PM
Overview of the Situation
Staff at the Manhattan Psychiatric Center are expressing growing concerns regarding the safety of both criminally insane patients and civilian patients due to ongoing elevator malfunctions. These issues have persisted since September 2023, when flooding caused the elevators to become inoperable, forcing staff to transport dangerous inmates through the facility's non-criminal side.
Background of the Facility
The Manhattan Psychiatric Center, located on Wards Island, houses a mix of criminally insane patients and civilian individuals. In 2020, approximately 228 inmates, including those deemed criminally insane, were relocated from the Kirby Forensic Psychiatric Center, which had stricter security measures, including barred windows. The Kirby facility allowed for fresh air access, a feature that is now lacking at the Manhattan center, leading to increased agitation among patients.
Current Conditions and Risks
The malfunctioning elevators have resulted in two inmates breaching their wards, raising alarms among staff about potential violence. Dr. Catherine Mortiere, a psychologist at the center, noted that the lack of fresh air and open windows has contributed to the patients becoming "stir crazy and increasingly more agitated." Staff members have reported that the criminal patients are frustrated and often inquire about family visits, which are limited.
Official Statements & Responses
The New York State Office of Mental Health acknowledged the flooding issues but emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety of both patients and staff. An agency spokesman stated, “OMH is fully committed to ensuring safety of our patients and the staff entrusted to treat them at our psychiatric centers and while unexpected environmental concerns sometimes arise, we always treat safety and security with utmost importance in responding to these issues.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics within the facility have voiced concerns about the decision to relocate inmates to a less secure environment without adequate safety measures. Dr. Mortiere expressed her opposition to the move from the Kirby facility, stating, “We are all expecting something to pop off.” Another anonymous staff member described the situation as “very difficult,” highlighting the anger and frustration among the patients.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They get to go through the civil hospital.” — Dr. Catherine Mortiere, Psychologist
- “ “It’s a very difficult situation,” the worker said.” — Anonymous Staff Member
- “We are all expecting something to pop off.” — Dr. Catherine Mortiere, Psychologist
What's Next
As the situation develops, staff and management at the Manhattan Psychiatric Center are likely to face increased scrutiny regarding patient safety and facility conditions. The ongoing elevator issues and the potential for violence among inmates remain critical concerns for both staff and the state Office of Mental Health.
