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New York has spent significant funds from the city budget to purchase 1,247 games for PlayStation 4 and 5 for its correctional facilities. The list of purchases includes popular fighting games like Mortal Kombat 1 and Street Fighter 6, as well as sports simulators Madden NFL 24 and NBA 2K24. The total cost amounted to $59,260, which is approximately 5.2 million UAH at the exchange rate on July 7, 2024, according to the New York Post.
The initiative aims to improve discipline and reduce the rate of infractions among young inmates. The games will only be available to those who behave well, which the administration believes will encourage positive behavior.
However, this decision has sparked a wave of criticism among city residents and former prison staff. Many believe that such funds could have been spent on more pressing needs, such as improving the air conditioning systems for inmates and staff. Benny Boscio, head of the Correctional Officers’ Benevolent Association, expressed his dissatisfaction, stating that the priority should be on essential needs, not entertainment.
This news raises an important question: Can video games really improve the situation in prisons, or is this just another controversial experiment that might turn out to be a waste of money? Opinions are divided, and only time will tell if this initiative will have a positive impact on New York’s correctional system.
