| Contact: | Sunny Mindel/Lynn Rasic | (212) 788-2958 |
| Sandra Smith (Correction) | (212) 266-1055 |
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and Correction Commissioner William J. Fraser today honored Correction Officer Jeffrey Wright. A 13-year veteran of the Correction Department who works at the Manhattan Detention Complex, Wright apprehended a rape suspect early Monday morning while off-duty.
"Time and again, New Yorkers are reminded of the extraordinary dedication of those who wear the uniform of New York City," Mayor Giuliani said. "Correction Officer Jeffery Wright's quick thinking and brave effort to apprehend a suspect in a brutal crime serve as the latest reminder that such men and women, while often officially off-duty, never cease serving the people of their City. I commend him for his actions, and thank him on behalf of the entire City of New York."
Correction Commissioner Fraser said: "We're very proud of Correction Officer Wright's bold step, but not surprised by his actions. He exemplifies the superb professionalism of every fine Correction Officer in our Department."
After working a double shift on Sunday night, Officer Wright was in the Canal Street Subway station on his way home, when he saw a woman lying on a deserted subway platform.
Minutes earlier, a young man had rushed past Officer Wright and asked him a question about a train. A good Samaritan with the woman alerted Officer Wright that she had been beaten, robbed and raped, and informed C. O. Wright that the man who had just rushed past him was the perpetrator.
Officer Wright gave chase, captured the suspect, and held him until Police
Officers arrived at the scene. The man was arrested and charged with rape and
robbery.