Rikers Island Records First Death of 2025, Detainee Identified as Ramel Powell!

Posted on February 21, 2025February 21, 2025 by Yvonne Scott

2 min read

A 37-year-old man died at Rikers Island early Wednesday, marking the first death in the city jail system in 2025. Sources identified him as Ramel Powell, who was held at the Otis Bantum Correctional Center.

He had been detained since July 2023, spending 19 months in custody due to a parole violation related to a robbery and an assault arrest in Manhattan, according to city records.

Possible Overdose Suspected

Sources suggested that Powell’s death might be due to a fatal overdose, though the Department of Correction (DOC) has not confirmed this.

An investigation is underway to determine the cause. Powell was arrested on July 25 for allegedly assaulting someone on the Lower East Side on May 8. His next court date was set for March 6.

DOC Statement on Detainee’s Death

The DOC released a brief statement on Wednesday confirming the death but did not provide Powell’s name, gender, location, or the exact time of his death.

This lack of detail contrasts with past practices when such information was typically included.

In 2024, under then-Commissioner Louis Molina, the agency faced criticism for not publicly sharing death notifications. This policy was reversed following a public backlash.

The current Correction Commissioner, Lynelle Maginley-Liddie, expressed condolences and assured a thorough investigation into the incident.

Previous Deaths at Rikers Island

Powell’s death is the first reported at Rikers Island in 2025. In previous years, there were five deaths in 2024, nine in 2023, nineteen in 2022, and sixteen in 2021.

These numbers highlight ongoing concerns about safety and conditions within the jail system.

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Investigation and Next Steps

Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding Powell’s death. The DOC’s approach to transparency and accountability will be closely watched, given the history of criticism and scrutiny over the handling of inmate deaths.

Powell’s family and loved ones are awaiting more information, hoping for answers about what led to his tragic passing.

Reference

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