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The son of Robert Brooks has spoken out following the indictment of multiple prison guards charged in connection with his father's death. Robert Brooks, an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility, died after a severe beating by guards in December. The death was later ruled a homicide.
A grand jury indicted ten former prison guards, with six facing second-degree murder charges and others facing manslaughter and evidence tampering charges. The brutal attack was captured on body-worn camera footage, which showed Brooks being beaten while restrained. According to Everett Post, the footage revealed guards punching and kicking Brooks, leading to his death the following day.
Robert Brooks Jr. expressed his grief, stating, "Nothing can bring him back to us. Nothing can return to us what these men have taken away." He emphasized that while the indictments are a step toward accountability, they are not enough. He called for all those responsible for allowing such violence to be held accountable.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the actions of the guards and has ordered their termination. She stated that the incident should restore faith that severe consequences follow such acts. The case has sparked protests and raised concerns about the safety and oversight within correctional facilities. The guards involved have pleaded not guilty, and legal proceedings continue.