Penal Code correspondence

B1924-06:Chronological.

This series consists of incoming correspondence from judges and justices from across New York State responding to letters of concern from William Rice, private secretary to Governor David B. Hill in 1886. Rice's letters state that the judge had not given due consideration to section 697 of the amended chapter 68 of the Penal Code in 1886. This change would prevent the discharge of convicts during the colder seasons of the year as a way to cut down on crime. The theory was that convicts would not be as cold and would not need to commit crimes for articles of clothing to keep warm. Each reply from judges denies Rice's charge and most request further information so that they can better explain their position.

These records were transferred to the State Archives by the State Library sometime in 1978 but became estranged from the original accession for some unknown reason until they were identified and accessioned as part of the 11th floor renovation project.

There are no restrictions regarding access to or use of the material.