FBI investigating killing of inmate after assault by correctional officers
The FBI Albany Field Office is reviewing the circumstances surrounding the death of Robert Brooks, an inmate at the Marcy Correctional Facility, a state prison in Oneida County, after an assault by correctional officers.
“The FBI Albany Field Office and the Department of Justice are reviewing the facts and circumstances surrounding the death of Robert L. Brooks to determine the appropriate federal response," the FBI said in an emailed statement to The Hill on Saturday.
The bureau added it could not provide further comment as it is an ongoing review.
The statement comes after a video was released by the state’s attorney general, which showed correctional officers at the New York facility on Dec. 9 “repeatedly pummeling a handcuffed inmate, striking him in the chest with a shoe, and lifting him by the neck and dropping him,” according to The Associated Press. Brooks was pronounced dead at a hospital the morning after the assault, the AP reported.
The AP also reported that the state’s attorney general is investigating the officers’ use of force against Brooks.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul released a statement earlier this week condemning the "senseless" assault of Brooks.
“Like all New Yorkers, I was outraged and horrified after seeing footage of the senseless killing of Robert Brooks,” Hochul said in a statement issued Friday.
Hochul added that she ordered an investigation into the death of Brooks and directed state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Commissioner Daniel Martuscello to “begin the termination process for the 14 individuals who were involved in his fatal attack.”
Hochul vowed to hold everyone involved “fully accountable.”
“Once again, I want to offer my deepest condolences to Mr. Brooks’ family and loved ones as they grieve his tragic death. I am grateful to the Attorney General and her team, our State Police, and everyone working with us to ensure justice is served in this case,” the statement read.