On Friday, the New York Attorney General released disturbing video footage showing correctional officers beating Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility just hours before his death. The video, which was reviewed by both the Attorney General’s office and Brooks’ family before being made public, captures the tragic and violent moments leading up to his passing.

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This incident prompted an investigation by the New York Attorney General Letitia James, who opened the case on December 16 through the Office of Special Investigation (OSI). On December 21, James made a statement emphasizing that “law enforcement professionals must be held to the highest standards of accountability,” and reaffirmed her commitment to transparency for the people of New York.

Brooks, who had been serving a 12-year sentence for first-degree assault since 2017, was transferred to Marcy Correctional Facility from Mohawk Correctional Facility on the same day the attack occurred. The body camera footage shows Brooks, who was handcuffed, being led into a medical examination room, where officers began to beat him. After several minutes of abuse, Brooks appeared to lose consciousness. He was pronounced dead at a local hospital in the early hours of December 10, 2024, following the assault on the night of December 9.

In response to the footage’s release, New York Governor Kathy Hochul ordered the termination of the 14 officers involved and called for a thorough investigation into the incident. She emphasized that the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision must provide proper care and protection for those in custody, adding, "I will not tolerate anyone who violates that responsibility."

Rev. Al Sharpton, President of the National Action Network, condemned the violence, drawing parallels to the deaths of George Floyd, Tyre Nichols, and many other Black individuals who have been victims of police brutality. Sharpton thanked New York State leaders for their swift actions and expressed hope that the criminal justice system would deliver justice for Brooks and his family.

The investigation into Robert Brooks’ death is ongoing, and the case has not yet reached court.