Laura Taylor Swain, a federal judge, seized control of New York City’s lockups, which have been rife with violence and dysfunction.

In a 77-page decision, U.S. District Judge Laura Taylor Swain in Manhattan said she would select a "remediation manager," reporting directly to her, who would enjoy broad powers to reform Rikers, including authority to revise the jails' rules, hire staff and take disciplinary actions against employees who violate policies on the use of force.