Robert Brooks’ Prison Death Officially Ruled Homicide Following Autopsy

The 43-year-old inmate died from compression of the neck and blunt force injuries after being beaten by corrections officers in December 2024.

Robert Brooks, a New York inmate, died on December 10, 2024, after being beaten by corrections officers while handcuffed at Marcy Correctional Facility.
An autopsy confirmed the cause of death as compression of the neck and multiple blunt force injuries, officially ruling the death a homicide.
Body camera footage revealed officers punching, kicking, choking, and striking Brooks with a shoe while his hands were restrained behind his back.
Governor Kathy Hochul has called for criminal charges against the 14 corrections staff involved, who have been suspended or fired, and announced leadership changes at the prison.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Onondaga County District Attorney serving as special prosecutor and federal authorities reviewing the case.