ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – The Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to humane treatment of inmates.

In a statement, Sheriff Derek Osborne says he’s deeply shocked and disturbed about the recent “use of force” death of inmate Robert Brooks at a state-run correctional facility in Marcy.

“This incident is incomprehensible, and I want to assure you that both our local corrections officers and I are fully dedicated to providing fair, human, and respectful services to those incarcerated at the Tompkins County Jail,” stated Osborne. He added he’s proud of the county-wide approach to alternatives to incarceration and shared the following bullet points that reflect the office’s dedication.

  • 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.

The Sheriff adds the Tompkins County Jail is not associated with the state prison system, and any protest occurring at the jail would be ‘misdirected,’ and result in a required facility lockdown that would negatively impact inmates.

Governor Kathy Hochul released a statement on December 21 calling for the firing of the people involved in Brooks’ death.

“Yesterday I directed DOCCS Commissioner Martuscello to immediately begin the termination process for 14 individuals who were involved in the fatal attack on an incarcerated individual at Marcy Correctional Facility. This action comes after I directed an internal review of the circumstances that lead to this individual’s death. I once again offer my condolences to the deceased individual’s family and loved ones.

The vast majority of corrections officers do extraordinary work under difficult circumstances, and we are all grateful for their service. But we have no tolerance for individuals who cross the line, break the law and engage in unnecessary violence or targeted abuse. Both the New York Attorney General and the DOCCS Office of Special Investigations are conducting ongoing reviews of this incident, and I am committed to accountability for all involved.”

Footage of the attack is expected to be released soon.