Protest and Calls for Accountability Follow Death of Robert Brooks at Marcy’s Correctional Facility
Rally Demands Justice for Beating Victim
On Monday, a group of organizations and elected officials gathered in front of the Governor’s Mansion in Albany to demand accountability for those involved in the beating of Robert Brooks, a 37-year-old man who died on December 10 after being beaten by corrections officers at Marcy’s Correctional Facility.
Calls for Closure of Marcy’s Correctional Facility
State Senator Julia Salazar called for the closure of Marcy’s Correctional Facility, citing previous reports of violence against incarcerated individuals by staff at the facility. "Marcy Correctional Facility cannot remain open," Salazar stated. "The brutal killing of Robert Brooks would be more than enough reason to demand the closure of Marcy. However, there have been additional previous reports of unconscionable violence against incarcerated individuals by staff at Marcy and the other DOCCS facilities."
Investigations Ongoing
The New York State Attorney General’s Office has released body-cam video showing corrections officers beating Brooks and other staff members standing by and watching. The video has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability. The Attorney General’s Office has directed 14 individuals with alleged involvement to be terminated. Multiple investigations are underway, including one from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
Promises of Justice and Reform
Republican State Senator Patrick Gallivan emphasized the need for investigations and charges to be filed against those responsible for Brooks’ death. "The Attorney General is investigating, State Police is investigating, we know the Department of Justice is investigating, the FBI is investigating. Certainly, we’re very hopeful appropriate charges will be filed and they will be fully accountable for their actions." Gallivan also acknowledged the difficult work of corrections officers, but stressed the need to "root out the bad conduct" and hold those responsible for their actions to account.
Conclusion
The protest and rally demonstrate the widespread outrage and demand for justice following Robert Brooks’ death. As investigations continue, it remains to be seen whether those responsible for his beating and death will face accountability. The questions of what led to his death and how to prevent such incidents in the future remain unanswered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to Robert Brooks?
A: Robert Brooks, a 37-year-old man, was beaten by corrections officers at Marcy’s Correctional Facility and died on December 10.
Q: What is the investigation’s progress?
A: Multiple investigations are underway, including one from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, and the Attorney General’s Office has released body-cam video showing the beating.
Q: What are the demands of the protesters?
A: Protesters are calling for accountability for those involved in the beating and death of Robert Brooks, as well as the closure of Marcy’s Correctional Facility due to reports of violence against incarcerated individuals.
Q: What is the response from government officials?
A: Governor Hochul has directed 14 individuals with alleged involvement to be terminated, and investigations are ongoing.
