Governor Hochul Orders Termination of 14 Prison Staff After Inmate’s Death in New York Facility

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has taken decisive action against 14 employees at the Marcy Correctional Facility, including 13 correction officers and a nurse, following the death of 43-year-old Robert Brooks, an incarcerated individual. Brooks passed away on December 10, one day after an alleged violent incident at the state prison in central New York.

In a statement released on December 21, Hochul announced her decision after an internal review and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct by correctional staff. “We have no tolerance for individuals who cross the line, break the law, and engage in unnecessary violence or targeted abuse,” Hochul said.

The New York Attorney General's office, led by Letitia James, is conducting an investigation into the incident, including reviewing video footage of the alleged assault. James confirmed that her office will release the video to the public after Brooks' family has had the opportunity to view it.

“Law enforcement professionals must be held to the highest standards of accountability, and I am committed to providing New Yorkers with the transparency they deserve,” James said in a press release.

Elizabeth Mazur, an attorney representing Brooks’ family, described the footage as “horrific and violent.” She vowed to seek justice for Brooks and advocate for improved safety measures for incarcerated individuals at Marcy Correctional Facility.

Daniel F. Martuscello III, Commissioner of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS), supported Hochul’s decision, stating that it was “in the best interest of the agency and the communities we serve.” He condemned the actions of the implicated staff and pledged to pursue justice.

The New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, the union representing correctional staff, acknowledged viewing the footage and described it as "incomprehensible." The union stated that the incident undermines the integrity of the profession and endangers its members.

Meanwhile, advocacy groups, including the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) and the Correctional Association of New York (CANY), criticized systemic issues within the prison system. The NYCLU called Brooks’ death a reflection of a broader culture of violence and lack of accountability among correctional officers.

CANY, referencing a 2022 report based on interviews at Marcy Correctional Facility, highlighted ongoing concerns about abuse and racial discrimination. One incarcerated individual reported being warned by officers, “This is a hands-on facility. We’re going to put hands on you if we don’t like what you’re doing.”

While applauding the terminations, CANY called on Governor Hochul and the legislature to implement more extensive reforms. “They need to take bold and courageous actions to fulfill past commitments and bring about a new era of transparency and accountability in state government,” the organization stated.

The union warned that the fallout from the incident could create a more volatile environment in correctional facilities, making conditions even more challenging for staff.

As investigations continue, Governor Hochul’s decisive response underscores a growing demand for accountability and reform in New York’s prison system. Advocates and officials alike are watching closely to see how this case will impact broader efforts to address misconduct and ensure safety for both staff and incarcerated individuals.