4 more suspended in death of Mid-State inmate, Gov. Hochul calls early reports "disturbing"
Gov. Kathy Hochul issued the order Tuesday afternoon, saying in a statement that while the investigation into what happened is ongoing, early reports '...point to extremely disturbing conduct.'
'I am committed to accountability for all involved,' she wrote in a statement. 'The people of New York extend our deepest condolences to Mr. Nantwi's family and loved ones.'
She thanked Commissioner Daniel Martuscello and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision leadership for swiftly responding to this incident, but she said it was a reminder of the need for real, systemic change within the correctional system.
It's been almost 90 days since the death of Robert Brooks at Marcy Correctional Facility and the release of bodycam footage that showed several corrections officers brutally beating Brooks while his hands were cuffed behind his back.
Shortly after the footage came to life, Hochul mandated the use of body-worn cameras, expanded whistleblower hotlines, and brought in outside experts for a systemwide culture review.
Since Robert Brooks's death, several corrections officers have been arraigned and charged with murder or manslaughter.
However, the three nurses that were suspended were not charged by the special prosecutor's office.
Issues have only been compounded by the wildcat strike by corrections officers across the state as negotiations continue.
There was a massive gathering outside of Marcy with corrections officers, both current and retired, demanding change and an end to 16 to 24-hour shifts.
These strikes are happening across New York State and without union approval.
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'As I've said for weeks, my top priority is the safety and well-being of all New Yorkers involved in the correctional system, from civilian employees to National Guard to Correction Officers to incarcerated individuals,' Hochul said in a statement.
'The ongoing illegal work stoppage is a significant safety risk, and I once again reiterate the need for correction officers to return to work. My administration remains committed to working in good faith with correction officers to improve safety and working conditions within the correctional system, but we will not compromise on the need for responsible, law-abiding behavior by every single person who walks into a DOCCS facility.'
The Observer-Dispatch reached out to the New York State Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association for comment and any details of the death of Nantwi.
"This is an ongoing investigation and no details have been shared with the NYSCOPBA as of yet," NYSCOPBA officials said.
The Observer-Dispatch also reached out to the DOCCS with similar questions, however they did respond in time for publication.
This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: Gov. Hochul calls early reports of Mid-State inmate's death disturbing
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