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Governor Kathy Hochul has called for swift legal action following the ruling that Robert Brooks' death at Marcy Correctional Facility was a homicide. Brooks, an inmate, was brutally beaten by correctional officers in December, an incident captured on camera. He was taken to a nearby hospital but later died. The Onondaga County Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be compression of the neck and multiple blunt impact injuries.
Governor Hochul emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "The murder of Robert Brooks was horrific, shocking all New Yorkers to our very core. Now that the Onondaga County Medical Examiner has ruled Mr. Brooks’ death was a homicide, I believe the legal process must quickly move forward with criminal charges being filed and arrests being made." She stressed the importance of building a strong prosecution to ensure justice is served, adding, "This reprehensible act of violence demands the full force of our justice system — the family of Mr. Brooks deserves no further delays."
In response to the incident, one officer has resigned, and several others have been suspended without pay. The family of Brooks has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against 17 defendants. Multiple advocates and lawmakers are now calling for prison reform.
According to News 4 Buffalo, the governor's statement underscores the urgency of addressing this case. The family of Brooks is expected to release a statement soon.