Investigation into Death of Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility Continues
The investigation into the death of Robert Brooks while incarcerated at Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County continued when the office of Attorney General Letitia James recused itself and appointed Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick as special prosecutor.
Recusal and Appointment of Special Prosecutor
The Attorney General’s office recused itself from the investigation, citing a conflict of interest. The special prosecutor, William Fitzpatrick, was appointed to lead the investigation and make any necessary decisions regarding charges.
Legal Resolution Uncertain
Andrew Safranko, an attorney at Lamarche Safranko Law, has been retained by one of the corrections officers involved in the incident. Safranko explained that the change from the Attorney General, as well as other factors from the incident that led to Robert Brooks’ death, means there likely will not be a quick legal resolution.
"We have no idea. Just waiting on the attorney general or the FBI and those guys to release that, but they won’t release that and don’t have to release it to us until after there are charges pending. So we don’t know if they’ll go on like they’ve been doing and release it to the public first, or they’re going to wait and do it in the course of discovery in a criminal case," said Safranko.
Impact of Recent Legislation
Morgan Hook, Managing Director at SKDK, discussed the impact of recent legislation that took effect in January of 2025. He highlighted laws requiring paid prenatal care and changes to the minimum wage. Hook also discussed a proposed rule that could increase home construction costs.
"They’re thinking about making it a mandate to have fire sprinklers, like full fire, like the kind you might have in high-rise buildings, installed in one and two-story residences. And this could take effect in January, and any new houses that are built would require these things that cost somewhere like, $30,000 or $40,000 per house," said Hook.
Inspector General’s Priorities
The state’s Inspector General Lucy Lang discussed her office’s priorities heading into the new year.
Conclusion
The investigation into the death of Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility continues, with the special prosecutor leading the way. The legal resolution is uncertain, and it may take some time before charges are filed. In the meantime, the public can expect to see more information about recent legislation and its impact on the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the status of the investigation into the death of Robert Brooks?
A: The investigation is ongoing, with the special prosecutor leading the way.
Q: Why did the Attorney General’s office recuse itself from the investigation?
A: The Attorney General’s office recused itself due to a conflict of interest.
Q: What is the impact of recent legislation on the state?
A: Recent legislation has introduced changes to prenatal care and the minimum wage, as well as a proposed rule that could increase home construction costs.
Q: What are the priorities of the state’s Inspector General?
A: The Inspector General’s office is prioritizing transparency and accountability in its investigations.
