New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken a strong stance following the autopsy report that confirmed the death of Black inmate Robert Brooks at the hands of correctional officers as a homicide. Brooks, a 43-year-old serving a 12-year sentence for assault, died after being beaten by officers at Marcy Correctional Facility in December.
The Onondaga County Medical Examiner's report cited the cause of death as 'compression of the neck and multiple blunt force injuries,' leading to the classification of the manner of death as a homicide. Attorney Elizabeth Mazur, representing Brooks' family, emphasized the need for justice and prosecution of those responsible.
The incident has sparked outrage nationwide, with calls for swift legal action. Governor Hochul has urged for criminal charges to be filed promptly and arrests to be made, emphasizing the importance of delivering justice for Brooks and his family without delay.
The FBI, US Department of Justice, and New York Attorney General's Office are actively involved in investigating the case. Hochul has also initiated the process to terminate employees involved in the attack, with several individuals already suspended and one officer resigning.
A recent report on Marcy Correctional Facility highlighted systemic issues, including allegations of staff assaulting inmates and racial discrimination. The report revealed a disturbing pattern of abuse, with a significant number of inmates reporting verbal, physical, and sexual mistreatment by staff.
In response to these findings, the governor has appointed a new superintendent at Marcy and allocated funds for enhanced surveillance measures, including fixed and body-worn cameras at all Department of Corrections and Community Service facilities.
