A shocking turn of events has unfolded in the tragic case of prisoner Robert Brooks, whose life came to a brutal end at the hands of guards at an upstate New York prison in December. Governor Kathy Hochul made a significant announcement on Thursday, revealing murder charges in connection with Brooks’ death. She further disclosed that New York State Police would be stepping in to carry out arrests.
Expressing deep regret and a sense of urgency, Governor Hochul emphasized, “Robert Brooks should be among the living today.” She condemned the savage assault on Mr. Brooks as deeply disturbing and took immediate action to dismiss those involved from their positions.
Later on Thursday, a grand jury indictment was unsealed, bringing forth charges of second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter against six correctional officers. Additionally, two of the accused were charged with gang assault. While one name was kept confidential, the other individuals named in the indictment included Anthony Farina, Mathew Galliher, Christopher Walrath, David Kingsley, and Michael Mashaw.
The five identified men entered not guilty pleas during their court appearance on Thursday. In a troubling development, a total of 17 employees, comprising four sergeants and two nurses, were implicated in the incident and subsequently placed on suspension. Four others faced charges related to the case, with accusations ranging from manslaughter to tampering with evidence.
During an arraignment proceeding for one of the suspects, an unnamed woman seated in the courtroom erupted in a loud outburst, accusing the individual of being a “racist murderer” before being escorted out by court personnel.
Footage captured by body cameras on December 9th depicted the harrowing scene of Brooks, with his hands bound behind his back at the Marcy Correctional Facility, being subjected to vicious blows and kicks by multiple guards. The distressing video showed Brooks lying defenseless on a medical bed, his face visibly bloodied at one point.
Following the attack, Brooks was rushed to a hospital but tragically succumbed to his injuries the following day. An autopsy report conducted by the family’s attorney confirmed that Brooks’ death was categorized as a homicide, citing neck compression and severe blunt force injuries as the cause of death.
In response to the disturbing footage of Brooks’ assault surfacing, Governor Hochul took swift action by terminating the employment of 14 individuals at the Marcy Correctional Facility. The New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association expressed that the incident did not align with the exemplary conduct exhibited by the majority of their members on a daily basis.
In a bid for justice, Brooks’ estate initiated a civil complaint last month, leveling accusations of excessive force against 17 individuals in connection with the tragic events leading to his untimely demise.
