Hawley, Ortt, union for COs condemn beating of inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility

Two local state legislators and the union for corrections officers have condemned the beating of Robert Brooks by COs at the Marcy Correctional Facility on Oneida County.

Robert Brooks died on Dec.10 after a beating from corrections officers at Marcy while Brooks was handcuffed with his hands behind his back. Video shows Brooks shows officers pushing, kicking, grabbing and pulling Brooks by his neck.

Assemblyman Steve Hawley, R-Batavia, issued this statement:

“The incident at Marcy Correctional Facility was appalling and should not be tolerated. I’ve spoken with numerous correctional officers in our community over the last few days who are equally disgusted and outraged by this tragedy. These events do not represent the overwhelming majority of our hardworking, dedicated and professional corrections officers. Those responsible should be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

State Sen. Rob Ortt, R-North Tonawanda, issued this statement:

“I am sickened by the brutal and senseless attack at Marcy Correctional Facility. The footage is absolutely appalling, and these violent actions cannot be tolerated. While this incident will understandably outrage New Yorkers, it’s important to recognize that this horrific event does not reflect the dedicated service of the countless correction officers who risk their lives every day to maintain order and safety in our prisons. Those responsible must be held fully accountable – there is no excuse for this behavior.

James Miller, director of public relations for the NYS Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association, issued this statement:

“NYSCOPBA’s Executive Board has reviewed the video footage released by the Attorney General regarding the death of Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility.  What we have witnessed is reprehensible .

“It is clear to all of us that these actions are a disgrace to our profession and have put everyone inside our facilities at risk. As correction officers and sergeants, we have a duty to protect every person inside a correctional facility. At all times, we must be ready to stop those seeking to do harm, and that includes fellow staff.

“We, as an organization, stand in complete defiance of the callous disregard for the suffering that we have all witnessed on this video. NYSCOPBA will continue to fulfill its legal obligation to defend all members from all administrative charges, regardless of severity or public outcry. However, as more information becomes readily available, NYSCOPBA must continue to focus its efforts on advocating on behalf of those members who dutifully come to work every day and act with the professionalism and selflessness demanded of them.”