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A former prison guard from Mid-State Correctional Facility, Daniel Burger, has been sentenced to serve up to four years in prison for his role in the fatal beating of inmate Messiah Nantwi. On Monday (October 27), Oneida County Court Judge Michael Nolan handed down the sentence following Burger's guilty plea to offering a false instrument for filing, a non-violent felony. Initially, Burger faced more severe charges, including first-degree manslaughter and gang assault, but he accepted a plea deal.
The incident occurred on March 1, when Nantwi, a 22-year-old inmate, was beaten by several corrections officers using fists, batons, and boots. Nantwi was found lifeless 45 minutes after the guards entered his cell. The officers involved reportedly attempted to cover up their actions by falsifying reports and planting a weapon. They also allegedly met at a local diner to coordinate a false narrative about the incident.
Burger was one of ten officers indicted in connection with Nantwi's death. Two officers, Jonah Levi and Caleb Blair, face murder charges, while others are charged with manslaughter. Prosecutor Alphonse Williams noted that while Burger did physically engage with Nantwi, he was not a major contributor to the inmate's death.
Burger expressed remorse during his sentencing, offering condolences to Nantwi's family. He stated, "At the time of his death, Mr. Nantwi was only a couple years older than my oldest son, so I can't imagine what it must feel like to lose a loved one so young."
The case continues to unfold, with additional trials expected early next year. More former Mid-State correction officers are due in court this week.