In a remarkable turn of events, the newly appointed head of New York's jail system has a personal connection to the very facilities he now oversees. Mark Dupree, the city's new commissioner of correction, has revealed that he served time in a New York City jail nearly two decades ago. Now, as the top official in charge of the city's troubled prison system, Dupree is bringing a unique perspective to the role. His experiences behind bars are likely to inform his approach to reforming the system, which has faced criticism for its treatment of inmates and struggles with violence and overcrowding. As Dupree takes the reins, his personal story is sparking both hope and skepticism about his ability to turn things around.
New York's new jails boss once served time in a cell block he now oversees phillytrib.com
