Governor Hochul Orders Prison Reforms After Inmate's Death

New York Governor Hochul announced crucial prison reforms following the fatal beating of Black inmate Robert Brooks. The governor visited Marcy Correctional Facility, where bodycam footage captured the incident, to address systemic issues. Measures include firings, investigations, and funding for security enhancements.

New York's Governor Kathy Hochul has initiated sweeping prison reforms following the tragic death of Robert Brooks, a Black inmate who was fatally beaten by corrections officers earlier this month. The governor visited the Marcy Correctional Facility, where the incident occurred, pledging significant changes and accountability.

Governor Hochul's office stated that she was deeply affected by the loss of life and the brutal actions captured on body-worn cameras, which have been made public by the state's attorney general. Hochul emphasized the need for cultural change within the prison system and committed to drastically overhauling protocols to prevent future incidents.

Actions include the dismissal of involved officers and the appointment of a new superintendent. Hochul has earmarked $400 million for enhanced surveillance in all state prisons, including fixed and body-worn cameras. Additional reforms target cultural assessments and expanded whistleblower protections. The investigation into Brooks' death is ongoing.

(With inputs from agencies.)