Danger on the Job

New York City

It is increasingly dangerous to be a member of Local 1457 (DC 37). In recent months, nearly 50 counselors — all members — have been assaulted by residents of understaffed juvenile-detention centers. The facilities, managed by the Department of Juvenile Justice, house youths charged with crimes ranging from robbery to rape and murder.

Although the number of incidents fell to five in September, it more than doubled in December. In a six-month period last year, there were nearly 50 attacks. Three counselors suffered severe injuries that disabled them for weeks: Fannie Ojatusase was viciously bitten on her thumb; Edith Delorosa’s hair was pulled so hard that she wound up with a sprained shoulder; and Beverly Jeffrey was punched in the face, then wrestled to the ground.

"Years ago, when female counselors were injured, it was while they were breaking up fights," says 12-year counselor Vandora Pankey-Roberts. "Now residents are attacking them." This alarming spiral of on-the-job violence, directed mostly at female counselors, has prompted DC 37 leaders to press for stronger protections in the workplace.

"It is intolerable to have workers going to their job and fearing for their safety every day," says Local 1457 Pres. Alex Parker. "Management has turned a blind eye to the violence. We won’t give up until the department takes concrete steps to protect our members."