Newly released footage reveals a disturbing incident involving prison staff and an inmate shortly before his tragic death
New York: So, there’s this really upsetting story that just came out. Bodycam footage has been released showing a corrections officer beating an inmate named Robert Brooks. This all happened at Marcy Correctional Facility, and it’s just heartbreaking.
In the video, you can see Brooks, who was restrained, getting hit by officers while he was on a medical exam table. It’s tough to watch. They were hitting him in the head, chest, and even in a sensitive area. One officer even used a shoe. It’s just wrong.
This incident took place on December 9, and sadly, Brooks passed away the next day in the hospital. He was serving a 12-year sentence for first-degree assault since 2017. The footage was shown by New York Attorney General Letitia James during a press conference, and she called it “shocking and disturbing.”
James mentioned that the footage was released to provide transparency and accountability, especially for Brooks’ family. She expressed her condolences and said it was a tough decision to make, especially during the holiday season.
Since the incident, one officer has resigned, and 13 others have been suspended without pay. Governor Kathy Hochul is pushing for all involved to be fired. She’s made it clear that while most correction officers do great work, there’s no room for violence or abuse.
Brooks’ family is understandably devastated. They expressed their shock and sadness over his death and are grateful for the swift actions being taken. They just can’t wrap their heads around how something like this could happen.