New York Gov. Kathy Hochul Orders Firing of Over a Dozen Prison Staff Over Fatal Beating of Inmate
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the firing of over a dozen prison staff members in connection with the fatal beating of an inmate earlier this month. The incident occurred on December 9 at the Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County, where 43-year-old Robert Brooks was severely beaten and died the following day at a hospital.
The decision to terminate the employees came after an internal review, although the circumstances leading up to Brooks’ death were not publicly disclosed. The 14 staff members involved include corrections officers, sergeants, and a nurse, who have been suspended without pay.
The Department of Corrections Commissioner Daniel Martuscello III condemned the staff’s actions, stating that there is “no place for brutality in our department” and that the agency will “vigorously pursue justice against the individuals who committed this senseless act.”
The governor’s office praised the majority of corrections officers, saying they do “extraordinary work under difficult circumstances,” but stressed that tolerance for those who “cross the line, break the law, and engage in unnecessary violence or targeted abuse” is zero.
Meanwhile, the family of Robert Brooks expressed shock and sadness over his death and welcomed the governor’s swift action to hold the responsible parties accountable. However, they also called for an investigation to be conducted to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The state’s Attorney General, Letitia James, is also investigating the use of force by corrections officers that led to Brooks’ death, stating that law enforcement professionals must be held to the highest standards of accountability. The investigation has obtained video evidence of the incident, which will be made public after Brooks’ family has had an opportunity to view it.