St. Joseph’s Health in Syracuse is preparing to hire peace officers to address increasing aggression toward hospital staff. The new hires will possess specific law enforcement capabilities, including the authority to take individuals into custody, issue appearance tickets, remove trespassers from hospital grounds, and hold suspects for other police agencies.
These roles were established through a state law signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in late July. The legislation was sponsored by Senator Chris Ryan and Assemblyman Al Stirpe, both of whom addressed a recent news conference regarding the initiative.
Dr. Steven Hanks, CEO and President of St. Joseph’s Health, stated that the primary objective is to reduce violence at three facilities in Onondaga County. He noted that caregivers should focus on patient care rather than worrying about personal safety.
Hanks cited a 60% increase in attacks involving punching, kicking, and biting over the past six years, with violence in the Emergency Department rising by 100%. He described the issue as part of a broader national trend affecting healthcare workers.
Lauren Giannetti, a former nurse who now directs the hospital’s behavioral health programs, shared personal experiences of being struck, bitten, and threatened with a knife by patients. She reported that in the last six months, employees have been choked, punched, and assaulted, with one incident requiring an employee to be treated in the emergency department.
Giannetti emphasized the need for staff to feel secure while performing their duties.
Joshua Laiacona, regional director for safety and security services at Trinity Health New York, explained that the goal is to have two peace officers working each shift. They will work alongside approximately ten traditional security officers, who do not have inherent law enforcement powers. Laiacona stated that Trinity Health will set minimum requirements for these officers that are stricter than state standards.
The network plans to recruit retired law enforcement personnel who already meet experience and training criteria, focusing on crisis intervention and de-escalation skills. Some current security officers may be converted to the new role.
