New York Attorney General Letitia James steps aside from investigating a fatal prison assault, appointing a special prosecutor to ensure impartiality.
At a Glance
- AG Letitia James recused her office from investigating inmate Robert Brooks’ death due to potential conflicts of interest
- Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick appointed as special prosecutor
- Body camera footage shows officers beating handcuffed Brooks, leading to his death
- Governor Hochul initiated proceedings to fire 13 correctional officers and a nurse involved
- Multiple investigations are ongoing, including probes by State Police, FBI, and New York’s Commission of Correction
Attorney General’s Recusal and Special Prosecutor Appointment
New York Attorney General Letitia James has recused her office from investigating the death of inmate Robert L. Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility. The decision comes amid concerns over potential conflicts of interest, as James’ office represents several correction officers in related legal matters. To ensure an unbiased investigation, Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick has been appointed as the special prosecutor.
The recusal highlights the complex nature of the case and the need for transparency in pursuing justice. James emphasized the importance of avoiding even the appearance of a conflict that could impede the investigation or potential prosecution.
NY attorney general releases videos in beating death of state prisoner https://t.co/u23Ouur7n0
— Gothamist (@Gothamist) December 27, 2024
Details of the Fatal Incident
The incident that prompted this investigation occurred at Marcy Correctional Facility, where Robert Brooks, serving a 12-year sentence for first-degree assault, was fatally beaten. Body camera footage released by James’ office shows a disturbing scene of officers assaulting Brooks while he was handcuffed. The attack led to Brooks’ death the following day, sparking outrage and calls for reform.
“Even the possibility or mere appearance of a conflict could tie up a potential prosecution in lengthy legal challenges or get a potential prosecution outright dismissed. And I will not allow justice to be delayed or denied because of a conflict,” Attorney General Letitia James said.
Preliminary autopsy findings suggest asphyxia due to neck compression as the cause of death, indicating the actions of another person. The case has drawn attention to the broader issue of inmate treatment and oversight within the correctional system.
Ongoing Investigations and Administrative Actions
The fatal beating of Robert Brooks has triggered multiple investigations, including probes by the State Police, the corrections department’s Office of Special Investigations, the FBI, and New York’s Commission of Correction. These concurrent investigations underscore the gravity of the incident and the determination to uncover the full truth.
“The video of this horrific attack demonstrates that crimes clearly were committed, and I believe initial charges can be brought even as more serious charges are considered based on further investigation,” Governor Kathy Hochul said.
In response to the incident, Governor Hochul has taken swift administrative action. She appointed a new prison superintendent and initiated proceedings to terminate 13 correctional officers and a nurse implicated in the attack. These measures reflect the administration’s commitment to accountability within the prison system.
WATCH LIVE: Attorney General Letitia James will discuss the release of footage showing an inmate who was beaten by staff and later died.https://t.co/lIFJx70VnI
— News 8 WROC (@News_8) December 27, 2024
Implications and Next Steps
The recusal of the Attorney General’s office and the appointment of a special prosecutor mark a significant development in the case. It ensures that the investigation can proceed without the potential complications that could arise from conflicts of interest. District Attorney Fitzpatrick, with over 30 years of experience serving Onondaga County, is now tasked with leading this complex investigation.
“District Attorney Fitzpatrick has served Onondaga County for over 30 years. His office is well-resourced to handle this complex and large investigation, and I thank him for taking on this case,” Attorney General Letitia James stated.
As the investigation unfolds, all records related to the case will be transferred to the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. The Attorney General’s Office has also communicated with Robert Brooks’ family regarding the decision and expressed condolences. The case continues to draw attention to the need for reform and increased oversight in correctional facilities, with many watching closely to see how justice will be served in this tragic incident.
