09/19/2026
New York state has reached a $24 million settlement with the family of Robert Brooks, who died after he was beaten by prison guards while in custody.
Guards repeatedly punched and kicked Brooks in the groin, abdomen and face on Dec. 9, 2024, at Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County. He died hours later at a Utica hospital.
Ten guards were charged in the fatal beating. One guard was found guilty by a jury, while six pleaded guilty. Two were acquitted by a jury. The last guard is scheduled to go to trial in January.
"It is my hope that this agreement will provide them with some measure of relief in the aftermath of his loss," Gov. Kathy Hochul said.
