Local law enforcement leaders are joining a growing chorus of voices condemning the violent attack that led to the death of inmate Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility earlier this month. Officials, including Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck and Tompkins County Sheriff Derek Osborne, have publicly denounced the actions captured in body-worn camera footage released by Attorney General Letitia James, describing the incident as “inexcusable” and calling for meaningful reforms to prevent similar tragedies. Their statements reflect a broader push for transparency, accountability, and systemic change within New York’s correctional facilities.
Brooks, serving a 12-year sentence, was transferred from Mohawk Correctional Facility to Marcy on December 9. Hours later, he was declared dead at a local hospital on December 10. Preliminary findings suggest asphyxia due to neck compression as a potential cause of death. The footage shows multiple correction officers, including Sergeant Glenn Trombly, and medical staff failing to intervene as Brooks endured repeated physical abuse.
Governor Kathy Hochul has since initiated the termination of 14 prison staff members involved in the incident, including officers and a nurse. Meanwhile, the Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has launched a full inquiry into the events leading to Brooks’ death. Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI investigates all incidents where law enforcement officers may have caused a death through actions or negligence.
Statements from local officials reflect widespread condemnation. Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck expressed his disgust, calling the actions of the officers “inexcusable and unjustifiable.” He emphasized that the incident must not overshadow the daily contributions of correctional staff who uphold their duties with integrity.
Additional details from supporting depositions highlight a timeline of events where Brooks was physically restrained, forcefully moved, and repeatedly struck while restrained. At one point, an officer was observed delivering multiple strikes to Brooks’ body, while others held him down. Medical personnel were present but did not intervene effectively during the assault.
Elizabeth Mazur, attorney for Robert L. Brooks’ family, responded to the release of footage by the New York Attorney General’s Office, calling the incident a horrific and violent attack by officers responsible for Brooks’ safety.
Mazur emphasized that Brooks deserved to live and highlighted the right of all inmates at Marcy Correctional Facility to be free from fear of violence by staff.
Public calls for accountability and systemic reform within New York’s correctional facilities are growing louder. Advocates point to longstanding concerns of abuse and misconduct within state prisons, demanding urgent policy changes and independent oversight.
In response to the death of an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility, Tompkins County Sheriff Derek Osborne emphasized ongoing reforms to ensure safety and accountability at the county jail. Measures include expanded bodycam use, enhanced oversight of use-of-force incidents, and a robust grievance reporting system.
The corrections division recently received re-accreditation from the NYS Sheriff’s Association, reflecting high standards of practice. Training programs now focus on de-escalation, mental health awareness, and cultural competency, while recruitment incentives and rigorous hiring processes address staffing challenges.
Osborne reiterated the jail’s independence from the state prison system and urged against protests, warning they could disrupt inmate services and movement.
As investigations proceed, Attorney General James emphasized that the release of the footage is not an indication of criminal charges but rather an effort to uphold transparency and public trust. Governor Hochul has pledged full cooperation with the investigation and promised swift action based on the findings.
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