“This is what it is for Black men in America” — Meek Mill reacts to bodycam footage capturing Robert Brooks’ fatal beating in prison

Robert Brooks, an inmate who was being held at New York’s Marcy Correctional Facility, died on December 10, 2024, at Wynn Hospital. However, days after the news went viral, a video circulated online that showed Brooks being physically assaulted by the correctional officers.

The video, recorded on a body-worn camera, has drawn much criticism from netizens and renowned personalities. For instance, rapper Meek Mill took to his X account on December 31, 2024, where he shared the video footage of the custodial assault.

He claimed the incident was the plight of most black men who are treated in such a manner when there is no surveillance around. Meek Mill wrote:

“I never fully watched this til today … this what it is for black men in America if you get caught without them cameras around! If you been to jail b4 you seen this with your own eyes!”

According to CNN, the footage of Robert Brooks’ assault was released on December 27, 2024. As seen in the video, the officers punched and kicked him while he was in a medical examination room. At one point in the video, Brooks started bleeding from his face. An investigation into the incident is underway as per the order of Attorney General Letitia James.

Per prison documents, Robert Brooks was sentenced to 12 years in 2017 for first-degree assault and was serving his sentence at the Marcy Correctional Facility in New York. He was transferred to Marcy on December 9, 2024. The video footage did not have the audio recording of the incident as the body cameras on the four officials were not turned on.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul responded to Robert Brooks’ death

On December 27, 2024, Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement on X saying she was outraged after seeing the video footage of the assault Robert Brooks had to endure. She stated that it was the responsibility of the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision to look after inmates’ security and protection.

The governor mentioned that there would be zero tolerance for those who violate this duty. Her statement added:

“That is why I ordered an immediate and full investigation into the death of Robert Brooks and further directed DOCCS Commissioner Martuscello to begin the termination process for the 14 individuals who were involved in his fatal attack. The State of New York has zero tolerance for individuals who break the law, and I am committed to holding everyone involved fully accountable.”

Kathy Hochul extended her heartfelt condolences to Robert Brooks' family and loved ones as they mourned his tragic death. She also conveyed gratitude to the Attorney General, the State Police, and all working toward justice in the case.

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As per CNN, Daniel Martuscello III stated that the video evoked a profound sense of disgust and nausea, and prompted him to commit to implementing institutional reforms within the department.

Similarly, New York State Senator Julia Salazar advocated for the closure of Marcy Correctional Facility, citing a history of reported incidents involving severe violence against incarcerated individuals.

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