Inmate charged with 2023 murder of elderly UWS woman dies in NYC courthouse’s holding cell

A Tragic Death in Custody: The Case of Terrence Moore

On Monday, a 55-year-old inmate at Rikers Island, Terrence Moore, died inside the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse after suffering a seizure in a holding cell. His death marks the second fatality in city custody this year, raising concerns about the conditions and care provided to detainees in New York City’s correctional system. Moore was at the courthouse for a scheduled hearing related to his charges in the murder of 74-year-old Maria Hernandez, whose body was found brutally beaten in her Upper West Side home in 2023. Despite efforts to save him, Moore was pronounced dead at around 5 p.m. The Department of Correction (DOC) has pledged to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.

Background of Terrence Moore and the Murder Case

Terrence Moore was no stranger to the criminal justice system. He had previously served 27 years in state prison for second-degree murder and other charges before being released on lifetime parole in 2017. Moore was arrested in January 2023, along with another suspect, in connection with the murder of Maria Hernandez, a kind and beloved elderly woman whose life was tragically cut short. Her body was discovered by her sister, who described her as "very kind, loving, and caring" and expressed disbelief that someone would harm her. Moore faced murder and burglary charges in the case, but his lawyer, Glenn Hardy, maintained his client’s innocence throughout the legal proceedings. Hardy described Moore as a "gentleman" who was always polite and respectful, adding that Moore never revealed any health issues during their two years of interaction.

The Circumstances Surrounding Moore’s Death

Moore was being held at the North Infirmary Command on Rikers Island, a facility designated for inmates with medical conditions or disabilities, as well as some members of the general population. On the day of his death, Moore was transported to the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse for a hearing that was ultimately waived until March 28. The hearing was intended to address the results of a mental evaluation, but it was delayed due to his lawyer’s involvement in another trial. While in a holding cell, Moore suffered a seizure, and despite emergency medical efforts, he could not be revived. The DOC has expressed condolences to Moore’s family and has promised a full investigation into the events leading to his death.

A Larger Pattern of Concerns at Rikers Island

Moore’s death is the second reported fatality in New York City’s jails this year, following the death of 38-year-old Ramel Powell last Wednesday. The correction department has faced widespread criticism for the deplorable conditions at Rikers Island, which have been linked to health risks, overcrowding, and inadequate care for detainees. The federal government has threatened a takeover of the facility unless significant reforms are implemented to address these systemic issues. Advocates and officials alike have called for urgent action to improve the living conditions and medical care available to inmates, citing the potential for further tragedies if changes are not made.

Remembering Maria Hernandez and the Impact of Crime

While Moore’s death has brought attention to the challenges within the correctional system, it also serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of violent crime on victims’ families. Maria Hernandez, the elderly woman whose life was taken in 2023, was remembered by her sister as a kind and gentle soul who had no known enemies. Her sister speculated that the perpetrator may have been "looking for somebody else," expressing shock and grief over the senseless violence that claimed her sibling’s life. The case underscores the lasting effects of crime on communities and the importance of ensuring justice for victims and their loved ones.

Conclusion: A Call for Accountability and Reform

The death of Terrence Moore in custody highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within New York City’s correctional system. While the investigation into his death is ongoing, it is clear that the conditions at Rikers Island and other facilities pose serious risks to the health and safety of detainees. Moore’s passing also serves as a reminder of the human cost of crime and the importance of upholding the integrity of the justice system. As the city grapples with these challenges, it is imperative that officials prioritize the welfare of those in custody and work towards creating a safer, more humane environment for all.