Additional Coverage:
- NY correctional officers repeatedly struck handcuffed inmate, picked him up by his neck before he died: video (foxnews.com)
Correctional Officers Accused of Brutal Assault on Inmate
In a disturbing incident at a New York prison, correctional officers are facing charges of assaulting an inmate, Robert Brooks, who died a day later. Video footage released by the New York Attorney General’s office shows the officers repeatedly punching Brooks, striking him with a shoe, and lifting him by the neck before dropping him.
Investigation Ongoing
The attorney general’s office is investigating the officers’ use of force that led to Brooks’ death. The preliminary autopsy findings suggest asphyxia due to compression of the neck as the cause of death.
Governor Orders Firings
New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordered the dismissal of over a dozen prison staff members, including correctional officers and a nurse. The governor expressed outrage and horror at the “senseless killing.”
Footage Reveals Extreme Violence
The video shows the officers punching Brooks while he is handcuffed and lying on a table. One officer uses a shoe to strike him, while another lifts him by the neck and drops him. The officers then remove his clothing as he lies motionless and bloodied.
Public Outrage and Union Response
The release of the video has sparked public outrage and condemnation. A lawyer for Brooks’ family described the attack as “horrific and extreme.” The union representing correctional officers called the incident “incomprehensible” and said it did not reflect the work of most officers.
Systemic Issues Raised
The Correctional Association of New York, a prison oversight group, reported previous allegations of brutality at the prison where the assault occurred. The organization emphasized the need to address systemic issues that allow such violence to take place.