Death of Robert Brooks (MARCY)

Published on December 26, 2024

I am deeply shocked and disturbed by the recent incident involving the brutal death of Robert Brooks at the NYS-run Marcy Correctional Facility. This incident is incomprehensible, and I want to assure you that both our local corrections officers and I are fully dedicated to providing fair, humane, and respectful services to those incarcerated in the Tompkins County Jail.

Our commitment is reflected in the following actions:

In April 2024, a NYS CO was hired as a lateral transfer. After an incident where he slapped an inmate, the officer was immediately terminated and criminally charged. We promptly informed the public and the NYS Attorney General’s Office, making it clear that such behavior is not tolerated.
We maintain comprehensive grievance and complaint reporting systems to safeguard the rights of inmates.
The Tompkins County Legislature recently approved an expansion of our bodycam program, adding CO-worn bodycams to our existing wall-mounted camera systems.
All use-of-force incidents are meticulously documented and reviewed by supervisory staff, up to the Undersheriff and me.
We were among the first to implement an agency-wide "Duty to Intervene" policy, requiring staff to intervene and report inappropriate actions. In the case mentioned above, another CO reported the incident.
Our Corrections Division was recently re-accredited by the NYS Sheriff's Association, confirming that our policies align with the highest standards of practice.
Over recent years, we’ve enhanced training in de-escalation, mental health awareness, and cultural competency.
Despite staffing challenges faced by other facilities, we’ve worked with the legislature to secure funding for past recruitment incentives. This allows us to maintain adequate staffing levels and reduce officers' stress, which helps us manage difficult situations effectively.
We’ve strengthened our hiring process with more rigorous background checks, psychological evaluations, and drug testing.
The legislature recently funded facility upgrades to improve the living environment for those housed locally.
Our corrections officers are hardworking professionals who work tirelessly to provide a safe environment.

Our local jail is not associated with the NYS prison system. We are proud of our county-wide approach to alternatives to incarceration, with most of our inmates being housed for very short periods of time.

Protests at our local jail would not only be misdirected, but they would result in a required and immediate lockdown of our facility. A lockdown would restrict the free movement of inmates and impact the availability of certain services. We strongly discourage participation in any activities that may contribute to this disruption, as it could negatively impact the services our inmates need and everyone's overall safety.

Thank you for your ongoing trust and support as we continue to prioritize safety, fairness, and respect in our facility.

Derek R. Osborne

Sheriff of Tompkins County, N.Y.