NY Attorney General Tish James Recuses from Marcy Correctional Death Investigation

New York Attorney General Letitia James announced her office’s recusal from investigating the death of Robert Brooks, an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility, on Thursday, January 2nd. The decision, prompted by a potential conflict of interest involving her office’s representation of implicated correctional officers, shifts the case to Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick.

Brooks, 43, died on December 10, 2024, a day after a violent incident at the upstate New York prison. Video evidence shows officers assaulting Brooks while he was restrained during a medical examination. The footage depicts officers striking Brooks with a shoe and lifting him by his neck, actions condemned by officials and the public alike. Preliminary autopsy results suggest asphyxiation and blunt force trauma as potential causes of death.

The attorney general’s office typically investigates deaths involving law enforcement, but James cited conflicts due to ongoing litigation in which her office represents four officers under scrutiny for similar misconduct allegations. “Even the possibility or mere appearance of a conflict could tie up a potential prosecution in lengthy legal challenges,” James explained, emphasizing the need to prioritize justice.

Governor Kathy Hochul, expressing outrage over the incident, has called for swift legal action. She directed the Department of Corrections to dismiss 13 employees linked to Brooks’ death and appointed a new superintendent at the facility. Hochul urged the special prosecutor to expedite charges, stating, “The video of this horrific attack demonstrates that crimes clearly were committed.”

Brooks, serving a 12-year sentence for assault, had been transferred to Marcy hours before the fatal altercation. The incident has reignited calls for reform within New York’s correctional system, with legislators and advocates demanding accountability and systemic changes.

Fitzpatrick, a veteran prosecutor, has pledged to conduct a thorough investigation. James, meanwhile, assured Brooks’ family of her commitment to justice. “This decision protects the integrity of the investigation and ensures accountability,” she stated, signaling her office’s cooperation with the special prosecutor’s efforts.

The case underscores ongoing challenges in addressing inmate abuse and highlights the need for transparent, impartial investigations to uphold justice and human rights.