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Bedford Hills Prison Official Transferred Amid Rising Deaths and Abuse Claims

Three women died in weeks under his watch. Now, a controversial prison official faces scrutiny—but remains on the payroll. His policies left inmates in distress. Why was he only transferred?

The image shows a black and white photo of a man walking down a long hallway in a prison cellblock....
The image shows a black and white photo of a man walking down a long hallway in a prison cellblock. The hallway is lined with railings, doors, and lights, and there is a window in the background. At the bottom of the image, there is some text.

Bedford Hills Prison Official Transferred Amid Rising Deaths and Abuse Claims

Michel Blot, the Deputy Superintendent of Security at Bedford Hills prison, was transferred back to Sing Sing Correctional Facility in mid-April. The move came after reports by New York Focus highlighted worsening conditions under his leadership. Advocates and incarcerated individuals had raised concerns about his policies and conduct.

Blot was originally assigned to Bedford Hills to reduce violence within the facility. Despite claims of success in that area, his time there saw stricter measures imposed. Incarcerated women faced limited shower access, longer periods of cell confinement, and a rise in staff use of force.

Earlier this year, three women died at Bedford Hills within four weeks—two by suicide. Manuela Morgado, one of those who took her own life, had written emails describing deep distress over the deteriorating prison environment. Another woman, Anna Adams, was barred from showering before a court appearance due to a policy enforced by Blot. The Department of Corrections and Community Supervision stated that Blot had done nothing wrong. However, his career includes past civil cases alleging excessive force and sexual assault during his time at Sing Sing and Green Haven prisons. Serena Martin, executive director of New Hour for Women and Children, reacted to the transfer with mixed feelings. While surprised by the decision, she expressed disappointment that Blot remained employed within the department.

Blot’s transfer followed mounting pressure from advocates and media scrutiny. His return to Sing Sing leaves questions about accountability for the conditions at Bedford Hills. The deaths and policy changes under his leadership remain under public and organisational review.

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