New York Attorney General Letitia James announced an update on the investigation into the death of Robert Brooks, who died on December 10, 2024, following an encounter with officers at Marcy Correctional Facility in Oneida County. The Attorney General’s Office has recused itself from the investigation to avoid potential conflicts of interest and has appointed Onondaga County District Attorney William J. Fitzpatrick as a special prosecutor in the case.
The decision follows a review of internal conflicts within the Attorney General’s Office. Several correction officers involved in the Brooks case are defendants in unrelated legal matters being handled by the office’s Division of State Counsel, which represents state agencies and employees. To prevent any possible conflicts or challenges that could undermine the investigation, the Attorney General determined that recusal was necessary.
By law, when a prosecutor is unable to pursue a case, County Law Section 701 allows for the appointment of a district attorney within the same judicial department. District Attorney Fitzpatrick, who has over 30 years of experience, will now lead the investigation. The Attorney General’s Office will transfer all relevant records to his office immediately.
The Attorney General emphasized that the recusal ensures the investigation’s integrity and prevents delays in potential prosecution. The decision has been communicated to representatives of Robert Brooks’ family, and the Attorney General extended her condolences to them during this difficult time.
