Gov. Kathy Hochul has directed the state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to fire 14 prison employees involved in the alleged beating death of an inmate.
The incident occurred December 9th at Marcy Correctional Facility, a medium-security prison near Utica. 43-year-old Robert Brooks was serving a 12-year sentence for first-degree assault. He died December 10th at a Utica hospital.
“Yesterday I directed DOCCS Commissioner Martuscello to immediately begin the termination process for 14 individuals who were involved in the fatal attack on an incarcerated individual at Marcy Correctional Facility. This action comes after I directed an internal review of the circumstances that lead to this individual’s death. I once again offer my condolences to the deceased individual’s family and loved ones.
“The vast majority of correction officers do extraordinary work under difficult circumstances, and we are all grateful for their service. But we have no tolerance for individuals who cross the line, break the law and engage in unnecessary violence or targeted abuse. Both the New York Attorney General and the DOCCS Office of Special Investigations are conducting ongoing reviews of this incident, and I am committed to accountability for all involved.”
New York Attorney General Letitia James released the following statement on her office’s ongoing investigation into the death of Brooks:
“My office’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the use of force by correction officers that preceded the death of Mr. Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, OSI has obtained and is reviewing video of the incident. In accordance with our voluntary video release policy, we will make the footage available to the public after Mr. Brooks’ family has had the opportunity to view it.
“Law enforcement professionals must be held to the highest standards of accountability, and I am committed to providing New Yorkers with the transparency they deserve.
“On behalf of the Office of the Attorney General, I offer my sincere condolences to Mr. Brooks’ family and loved ones.”
The state attorney general’s office and New York State Police are investigating the attack.
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