Mon Dec 30 19:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Inmate’s Death Sparks Outrage and Calls for Reform in New York Correctional Facilities

**Rochester, NY** – The death of Robert Brooks, an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility, has ignited widespread outrage and calls for sweeping reforms within New York’s correctional system. Brooks died on December 10th, a day after body camera footage showed multiple correctional officers striking him. While the cameras recorded the incident, the audio was disabled, prompting further outrage.

The New York Attorney General’s office launched an investigation, later joined by the Department of Justice and the FBI. The United Christian Leadership Ministry of Western New York (UCLM) held a press conference Monday, vehemently condemning the officers’ actions, describing them as a “despicable, barbaric, ruthless, and dehumanizing” display. Bishop Dwight Fowler, of the UCLM, likened the incident to a “slave patrol.”

Lentory Johnson, whose son was a victim of gun violence, expressed her horror at the footage, stating that even those guilty of taking a life deserve basic human dignity. She and the UCLM highlighted the prevalence of violence within correctional facilities, attributing it to what they call “goon squads.”

The UCLM is demanding the immediate suspension without pay, firing, and prosecution of the officers involved. They also called for a thorough investigation into Marcy Correctional Facility and every facility statewide, mandating the continuous use of body cameras during all inmate interactions. They are pushing for the replacement of “misfit” correctional officers with those demonstrating integrity, commitment, and excellence.

While some lawmakers suggest closing Marcy Correctional Facility, Fowler argues that the problem is systemic, requiring internal reform rather than relocation. Governor Kathy Hochul has responded by directing the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) to implement immediate changes, including expediting the installation of fixed and body-worn cameras in all facilities and commissioning an external review of the correctional system’s culture and practices. DOCCS has already suspended over a dozen officers without pay, and one officer has resigned. The governor is also allocating $400 million for improved security measures. The focus now remains on achieving justice for Robert Brooks and preventing future tragedies.

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