New York prosecutors are poised to announce criminal charges in the controversial prison guard beating that killed handcuffed inmate Robert Brooks. Body camera evidence reveals multiple corrections officers striking the defenseless 43-year-old with shoes, lifting him by the neck, and administering fatal blunt force trauma during a December 2022 transfer to Marcy Correctional Facility.
The Onondaga County District Attorney's office confirmed a noteworthy developmentwill be disclosed during Thursday’s court hearing. This inmate death case gained national attention after Brooks’ family attorneys released compromising footage showing guards:
- Punching Brooks’ torso while he remained restrained
- Using footwear as an improvised weapon
- Appearing indifferent during the 16-minute silent recording
Medical examiners ruled the death a homicide caused by neck compression and severe impact injuries. They systematically beat my father to death,Brooks’ son stated in a federal lawsuit accusing prison officials of fostering violent workplace culture. Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered termination proceedings against 15 employees linked to the attack.
This was a hands-on facility – we’re going to put hands on you if we don’t like what you’re doing,
Investigators discovered disturbing patterns of abuse at Marcy, including physical assaults in camera-free zones like prison vans and shower areas. The facility’s systemic violence problems predate Brooks’ killing, with multiple guards now under scrutiny for participation in previous inmate assaults.
With special prosecutor William Fitzpatrick declining comment until grand jury proceedings conclude, advocates demand accountability reforms. The case exposes critical failures in New York’s corrections oversight despite $12.6 million spent on bodycam implementation since 2021.