Antiguan creates history, heads NYC Department of Correction

Lynelle Maginley-Liddie, a Caribbean national, has made history by becoming the first Caribbean national and only the second Black woman to hold the position of Commissioner of the New York City Department of Correction (NYCDOC) in its 128-year history.

Her appointment has been welcomed by the New York City Mayor, Eric Adams, who praised her for her contributions to the department’s progress over the last 23 months.

With her diverse background, including a Caribbean upbringing in a Christian household, Maginley-Liddie has always aimed to abide by a healthy moral compass.

She attributes her accomplishments and career success to her faith in God and the support of her family. Her parents taught her to be impartial, just, and approach life with a sense of compassion, which she appreciates.

Maginley-Liddie’s dedication, hard work, and experience in the NYCDOC, where she has been serving the City of New York since 2015, have earned her the respect of her colleagues.

She has held various positions in the department, including serving as an agency attorney in the Legal Division, deputy general counsel, acting senior deputy commissioner, and chief diversity officer.

As Commissioner, Maginley-Liddie pledges to work tirelessly to create safe and humane conditions for those entrusted in the department’s care.

She is committed to following and setting standards for correctional best practices, ensuring that the staff and detainees receive nothing less.

Maginley-Liddie is familiar with every aspect of NYCDOC’s operations and is superbly qualified to help the city ensure compliance with the consent decree.

Her appointment has been welcomed by the New York City Corporation Counsel, Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix, who described her as a dedicated public servant committed to building upon the work the administration has done to effectuate the changes needed at Rikers.

Maginley-Liddie’s appointment is particularly significant for women of color. She is a powerful role model for others aspiring to leadership positions, encouraging them to envision themselves in leadership roles and to know that they can attain any position of power within the agency to effect real change.