ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — The death of Robert Brooks, a handcuffed man who was assaulted by prison guards at Marcy Correctional Facility, has been ruled a homicide according to an autopsy report released last week. The report indicates that Brooks died from compression of the neck and multiple blunt impact injuries sustained during the incident on December 9.
- Robert Brooks' death ruled a homicide.
- Cause of death: neck compression, blunt injuries.
- Body camera footage shows prolonged assault.
- Special prosecutor appointed for investigation.
- Correctional officers and nurses suspended without pay.
- Lawsuit filed by Brooks' son against officials.
The circumstances surrounding Robert Brooks’ death have raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of inmates in correctional facilities. On December 9, body camera footage revealed corrections officers attacking Brooks for approximately ten minutes while he was handcuffed on a medical examination table. One officer struck him in the stomach with a shoe, while another lifted him by his neck and dropped him back onto the table.
Following this incident, more than a dozen correctional officers and two nurses were suspended without pay, and one officer resigned. The investigation into Brooks’ death has been taken over by Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, appointed as a special prosecutor by New York’s attorney general. A grand jury is expected to review evidence related to this case.
Brooks’ family is pursuing legal action against those involved in his death. His son has filed a lawsuit against several individuals implicated in the assault as well as higher officials within the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision. Family attorney Stephen Schwarz emphasized that the autopsy report supports their claims regarding the cause of death being directly linked to what was shown on video.
This tragic event highlights ongoing issues related to inmate safety and accountability within correctional facilities. As investigations continue, it remains crucial for authorities to address these concerns effectively to prevent future occurrences.
