New York Gov. Kathy Hochul on Dec. 31 announced changes to the state’s prison rules after the fatal beating of Robert Brooks, an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility.
The governor, who visited the prison after the incident, announced a series of reforms meant to deter abusive behavior by prison staff, encourage the reporting of such actions, and improve the culture and practices in New York state prisons.
“Mr. Brooks and his family did not deserve this,” the governor said in a statement. “The system failed Mr. Brooks and I will not be satisfied until there has been significant culture change.
“Today I am implementing a number of new policies at Marcy and within DOCCS [ Department of Corrections and Community Supervision], and I look forward to continuing to hear ideas from experts, elected officials, and advocates as we continue this work.”…