The Big Count: How Many Prisons Are Actually in New York?
You'd think counting prisons would be easier than counting pigeons in Times Square, but it turns out, the Empire State's correctional facilities are more numerous than you might think! So, grab a soft pretzel, settle in on a comfy subway seat, and let's get counting... with a dash of humor, of course!
State-Run vs. County Coolers: Separating Apples from Oranges (or Pretzels from Bagels)
First things first, we gotta distinguish between state prisons and county jails. State prisons house folks convicted of felonies (the big crimes), while county jails hold those awaiting trial or serving shorter sentences for misdemeanors (the petty stuff... like maybe THAT time you tried to sneak a whole cheesecake onto the subway).
State Prisons: Here's where things get interesting. According to the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, there are around 44 state prisons funded by the state itself [ κρατικός (kratikos) means "of the state" in Greek, for all you trivia buffs].
County Jails: Now, counting county jails is a different ball game. With 62 counties in New York, each with its own jail system, it's like trying to count pigeons after a hot dog vendor spills his entire cart. But fear not, intrepid data detective! A 2020 report by the National Institute of Corrections suggests there are roughly 62 county jails in the state.
The Big Answer (Finally!): So, How Many Prisons Are We Talking About?
Now, before you grab your calculator and get overwhelmed, here's the key: we don't add state prisons and county jails together. They're different systems for different purposes.
So, the next time someone asks how many prisons there are in New York, you can confidently say:
- There are around 44 state prisons funded by New York State.
- There's a network of 62 county jails spread across the state's 62 counties.
Remember: These numbers might change over time, so it's always good practice to consult reliable sources like the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision for the latest figures.
Frequently Asked Questions (Just in Case You Need to Quiz a Friend):
How to visit a prison in New York?
While not exactly a tourist attraction, some facilities offer tours or programs. Check with the NYS Department of Corrections for details. But maybe consider a Broadway show instead?
How to avoid going to prison in New York?
Stay on the right side of the law! Easier said than done, sure, but avoiding crime is a good start.
