Overview
- Closing arguments described Michael Fisher standing by for nearly seven minutes as Robert Brooks was beaten in Marcy Correctional Facility’s infirmary, with prosecutorial photos showing him smiling and laughing.
- Fisher’s attorney argued he arrived after the assault began, lacked full awareness of Brooks’ injuries, and should not be judged with hindsight.
- Jurors began deliberations Thursday, considering body-camera footage that recorded the assault and medical testimony that Brooks likely would have survived if someone had intervened.
- A day earlier, former Sgt. Glenn Trombly testified that officers falsified use‑of‑force reports and pushed colleagues to align their stories, reinforcing claims of a pattern of excessive force and cover‑ups.
- Six other officers have pleaded guilty and one was convicted of murder, and the case has helped drive statewide changes requiring cameras in all prisons and prompt release of death‑related video as staffing strains persist with thousands of National Guard members still on duty.