Rochester Hearings – April 14, 1972 (Morning and Afternoon). Recording continues Judge Willis’ examination of Sowell. Sowell answers questions on “E” block, DVR, token system for commissary purchases and other privileges, schooling, psychological counseling, relationships between prisoners and officers, drug education, and Black Studies coursework at Attica. Sowell gives an independent statement and the morning session is recessed. Mitchell Krause gives an overview of the morning session and the agenda for the afternoon. McKay swears in Ralph Bottone, a corrections sergeant at Attica. Arthur Liman examines Bottone. Bottone compares his work experiences at previous correctional institutions to Attica and discusses his relationship to prisoners, as well as racial discrimination. Commissioner Henix asks Bottone questions on security, the term “brutality”, changes that could be made to Attica to prevent the uprising, and budgetary issues. Liman continues to examine Bottone on language issues between inmates and officers, militant inmates, and contacting the legislature about budgets and staffing shortages.

Identifier
NYSA_B1341-90_B3172156A

Date Original
April 14 1972

Language
English

Source
New York State Archives. New York (State). Special Commission on Attica. Special Commission on Attica audiotapes and transcripts of commission hearings, 1972. B1341-90, Box 6, Item 3.;1/4 inch open reel audiotape

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