A year after a fatal beating behind bars, New York is tightening oversight in its prisons, according to Spectrum News. Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an amended prison reform package Friday, prompted by the 2024 death of Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility.
The new law requires 24-hour surveillance cameras in most prison and jail areas, mandates cameras in DOCCS vehicles, and expands reporting and data collection on deaths and complaints. It also strengthens access for watchdog groups and pauses statutes of limitations for incarcerated people bringing injury claims.
Lawmakers trimmed the original bill, easing camera deadlines and softening rules on releasing death footage. Supporters say the law still marks a major step toward accountability after multiple high-profile in-custody deaths.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].