New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken decisive action following the tragic death of inmate Robert Brooks at the Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County. The governor has directed the state's corrections department commissioner to begin the process of terminating 14 workers involved in the fatal attack that led to Brooks' passing.
Brooks, a 43-year-old serving a 12-year prison sentence for first-degree assault since 2017, died on December 10 after an encounter with officers the day earlier. While details surrounding the incident remain limited, Governor Hochul emphasized that her decision to dismiss the staffers came after an internal review.
The corrections department has suspended 13 employees, including correctional officers, sergeants, and a nurse, without pay. Additionally, one correctional officer has resigned in connection to the incident. State Department of Corrections Commissioner Daniel Martuscello III condemned the actions of the staffers, stating that there is no place for brutality within the department.
State Attorney General Letitia James has also launched an investigation into the use of force by correction officers that resulted in Brooks' death. The attorney general's office has obtained video footage of the incident, which will be made public after Brooks' family has had the opportunity to view it.
Brooks' family expressed shock and sadness over his death, stating that no one should have to lose a family member in such a manner. They commended Governor Hochul for taking swift action to hold the officers accountable but questioned how such a tragedy could have occurred.
As investigations continue, Governor Hochul and Attorney General James have both emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The state is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that incidents of unnecessary violence or abuse are not tolerated within the corrections system.
