Robert Brooks, a prisoner in New York, tragically lost his life reportedly due to the actions of state corrections officers. This incident is particularly alarming as it has come to light that many of these officers earn substantial salaries, with some exceeding six figures, raising serious questions about accountability and oversight in the correctional system, as revealed by TMZ.

According to a preliminary autopsy report, Brooks, who was incarcerated at Marcy Correctional Facility in upstate New York, succumbed to asphyxia resulting from neck compression during a brutal assault by guards and other prison personnel on December 10. This shocking revelation highlights the need for reform and greater scrutiny in the treatment of inmates within the correctional system.

Bodycam footage obtained from the staff vividly captured the horrific assault on Brooks inside the facility. The video shows him being brutally beaten while he was restrained and gagged, raising serious ethical and operational concerns about the treatment of inmates. Prior to this tragic event, Brooks was serving a 12-year sentence for felony assault, bringing attention to the broader issues of inmate rights and safety in correctional institutions.

According to state employee compensation records that have come to light, there is a stark contrast in the salaries of correctional officers. Out of fourteen employees within the Department of Corrections, eight earn six-figure salaries, while the remaining officers receive annual salaries ranging between $70K and $89K. This disparity in pay raises questions about funding priorities and the management of state resources, particularly in light of the recent tragedy.

In examining the financial records from 2022 and 2023, it was found that several correctional officers have impressive salaries, including Sgt. Glenn Trombly at $149,185, Officer David Kingsley II at $147,745, and Officer Matthew Galliher at $114,375. Other notable salaries included Sgt. Michael Marshaw at $105,672 and Officer Christopher Walrath at $113,969. These figures reveal a concerning trend regarding the high earnings of personnel involved in the tragic incident.

While six corrections staff members earn under $100K, their salaries remain considerable. The following are the 2023 salaries for these employees: Nicholas Anzalone at $87,028, Robert Kessler at $89,248, Michael Fisher at $85,143, Michael Along at $88,333, Shea Schoff at $87,276, and David Walters at $70,423. The financial implications of these salaries within the context of the ongoing investigation are significant as they may reflect broader systemic issues within the department.

In response to the incident, a spokesperson for the NYS Department of Corrections and Community Supervision confirmed to TMZ that thirteen employees involved have been suspended without pay, while Officer Farina has tendered his resignation. This swift action suggests a serious acknowledgment of the gravity of the situation and the need for accountability within the correctional system.