NY Attorney General’s Office Recuses Itself From Case of Inmate’s Death

New York Attorney General Letitia James steps aside from investigating an inmate assault, citing potential conflicts of interest.

At a Glance

Attorney General James recused her office from investigating inmate Robert Brooks’ death.
Onondaga County DA William Fitzpatrick has been appointed as special prosecutor
Body camera footage shows officers beating handcuffed Brooks before his death.
Governor Hochul initiated proceedings to fire 13 correctional officers and a nurse.
Multiple investigations are ongoing, including by State Police, FBI, and NY 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 is currently defending several corrections officers in related cases. Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick has been appointed as the special prosecutor instead.

“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,” said James.

The recusal highlights the complexities of the attorney general’s role in overseeing investigations into law enforcement-related deaths while simultaneously representing state agencies. All records pertaining to the case will be transferred to the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office to maintain the integrity of the investigation.

Details of the Incident and Ongoing Investigations

The incident that prompted this investigation occurred at Marcy Correctional Facility, where Robert Brooks, serving a 12-year sentence for first-degree assault, was beaten shortly after his transfer to the prison. Body camera footage released by Attorney General James’ office shows scenes of officers beating Brooks while he was handcuffed.

Preliminary autopsy findings suggest asphyxia due to neck compression as the cause of death, indicating the actions of another person. The case has sparked outcry, including from Governor Kathy Hochul, who stated, “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.”

Implications and Responses

In response to the incident, Governor Hochul has appointed a new prison superintendent and initiated proceedings to fire 13 correctional officers and a nurse involved in the incident. A total of 14 prison staff members have been implicated, including David Kingsley, a resident of Adams, New York.

Some of the officers involved have been previously accused of inmate abuse in lawsuits. Multiple investigations are ongoing, including probes by the State Police, the corrections department’s Office of Special Investigations, the FBI, and New York’s Commission of Correction.

As the investigation unfolds, the Attorney General’s Office has communicated with Robert Brooks’ family regarding the decision to recuse and has expressed condolences.