Shocking Video Evidence Released of Fatal Inmate Beating at New York Prison

18 days ago
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New York, NY - In a disturbing development from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, the New York Attorney General's office has released body camera footage capturing the fatal beating of inmate Robert Brooks by correctional officers at Marcy Correctional Facility. The video, described as highly graphic by officials, was made public yesterday, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for justice.

The footage, which has been blurred and redacted for public viewing, shows several corrections officers brutally attacking Brooks. He was seen being carried into a medical examination room handcuffed and face down, only to be raised and subjected to a barrage of punches and kicks. The video, devoid of audio as the body cameras were not activated correctly, captures Brooks in a state of distress, his face visibly bloodied from the assault.

According to New York Attorney General Letitia James, Robert Brooks died on December 10th, 2024, the day following the incident. "I do not take lightly the release of this video," James stated, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability in such egregious cases. The video reveals officers not only striking Brooks repeatedly but also attempting to force an object into his mouth, escalating the brutality of the attack.

Brooks was serving a 12-year sentence for the stabbing of his girlfriend. His attorney, speaking on behalf of the family who viewed the video, expressed profound shock over the incident. "It was just the overwhelming shock... It felt so incomprehensible," the attorney shared, highlighting the emotional toll on Brooks's relatives.

The Attorney General's Office has launched a thorough investigation into the actions of the 14 correctional officers and staff involved, including two sergeants and a nurse. However, attorneys for these individuals have not yet responded to requests for comment from NBC News.

In response to the footage, the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association issued a statement distancing itself from the actions of the officers involved. "The egregious and repugnant action of the officers who committed this heinous and fatal assault does not in any way reflect the values of the vast majority of correction officers, including my members," stated the association's president, acknowledging the severity of the incident but also defending the integrity of most correctional staff.

This case has reignited discussions about the use of force in correctional facilities, the effectiveness of body camera policies, and the overarching need for systemic reform within the prison system to prevent such tragedies. The public release of this video has not only brought to light the immediate horrors faced by Brooks but also underscored the broader issues of accountability, transparency, and human rights in custodial settings.

The investigation by the Attorney General's Office is ongoing, with no decisions yet on potential criminal charges. The community, along with civil rights groups, awaits further developments, hoping for justice for Robert Brooks and a reevaluation of prison oversight protocols in New York State.

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