The son of Robert L. Brooks Sr., who died after a brutal beating by guards at Marcy Correctional Facility in New York, filed a federal lawsuit alleging systematic violence and negligence.

Brooks, a 43-year-old Black inmate, died in December 2023, a day after being handcuffed, beaten, and lifted by his neck in an attack caught on body camera footage.

The lawsuit names over a dozen guards, the prison’s former head, and the state corrections commissioner, seeking damages for excessive force and wrongful death.

The incident highlights alleged systemic abuse, with 15 officers and two nurses suspended and one officer resigning.

Governor Kathy Hochul ordered proceedings to fire those involved and appointed new leadership for the facility.

Brooks’ family, describing him as creative and passionate, demands accountability and systemic reform, the Associated Press has reported.

A special prosecutor is investigating, and preliminary medical findings suggest asphyxia due to neck compression caused his death.

Written by B.C. Begley