Murder charges have been filed in the tragic case of Robert Brooks, a 43-year-old inmate who was brutally beaten by correctional officers at Marcy Correctional Facility in upstate New York. Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement Thursday, confirming that six guards have been charged with second-degree murder, gang assault, and manslaughter in connection with Brooks’ death.
Brooks’ case has sparked national outrage, as bodycam footage from December 9 showed him handcuffed, restrained, and defenseless while being punched and kicked by multiple guards. He succumbed to his injuries the next day, with an autopsy confirming his death was a homicide due to compression of the neck and blunt force trauma.
Gov. Hochul didn’t hold back in her statement, saying:
“Robert Brooks should be alive today. The brutal attack on Mr. Brooks was sickening, and I immediately moved to terminate the employment of those involved.”
What Led to Robert Brooks’ Death? The Brutal Attack Caught on Camera
Shocking video footage from the prison infirmary shows Brooks lying on a bed with his hands cuffed behind his back. Instead of receiving medical attention, several correctional officers launched a savage attack, repeatedly punching and kicking him.
Brooks, who was in obvious distress, was left bloodied and struggling for breath. The footage shows him unable to defend himself as he is repeatedly struck. He was later transported to a hospital, but it was too late—he died the following day.
Attorney Elizabeth Mazur, who represents Brooks’ estate, confirmed that his manner of death was homicide, stating:
“Robert Brooks died as a result of compression of the neck and multiple blunt force injuries.”
Six Officers Charged—But More Suspensions Follow
The grand jury indictment released Thursday named six officers responsible for the attack, charging them with:
Second-degree murder
Gang assault
Manslaughter
However, the corruption within the prison ran deep. Reports indicate that 17 correctional staff members—including four sergeants and two nurses—were involved or complicit in Brooks’ death. They have all been suspended.
Gov. Hochul wasted no time ordering terminations, stating that 14 employees have already been fired for their role in covering up the assault.
Despite the charges, the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association released a statement distancing itself from the attack, saying:
“This incident is not reflective of the great work that the vast majority of our membership conducts every day.”
The Fight for Justice: Brooks’ Family Files Civil Lawsuit
Beyond the criminal case, Brooks’ family is demanding accountability. Last month, his estate filed a civil complaint, naming 17 individuals accused of excessive force, failure to intervene, and negligence.
This lawsuit could lead to millions in damages if the courts side with the family. Legal experts believe the damning video evidence will play a major role in both the civil and criminal cases.
What’s Next? New York Officials Respond
The charges against the officers are a major step toward justice, but many activists say it’s not enough. Calls for prison reform have intensified, with civil rights groups demanding:
More oversight in state prisons
Bodycam mandates for all correctional officers
Harsher penalties for abusive guards
Gov. Hochul has vowed to implement stricter regulations in New York’s prison system to prevent another tragedy like Brooks’ death.
