The Ethical Society of Police – St. Louis, MO stands in staunch condemnation of the barbaric actions taken by New York State Corrections Officers that resulted in the senseless and torturous killing of Robert Brooks. This horrific act, captured on bodycam footage, not only extinguished a life unjustly but also betrayed the very principles of justice and humanity that our profession is sworn to uphold.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Brooks. We recognize that no words can erase the profound pain of this loss, but we stand in solidarity with you, demanding justice and meaningful change to ensure that no other family endures such devastation.
The actions—or rather, inactions—of those who stood idly by while Mr. Brooks was mercilessly beaten are equally reprehensible. Every law enforcement and correctional officer bears a moral and professional obligation to intervene when witnessing abuse or excessive force. Failing to act is an act of complicity. We call for the immediate accountability of all individuals who chose silence over action, perpetuating a culture of impunity and inhumanity.
It is deeply concerning that policies requiring intervention during acts of misconduct appear to be absent in the correctional facility where this atrocity occurred. Such policies must be implemented and enforced to prevent further tragedies. No officer should be allowed to disregard their duty to protect life without facing severe consequences.
This tragedy is not an isolated incident. It is a glaring reminder of the systemic issues that plague our criminal justice system, particularly in its treatment of Black and brown lives. For far too long, the culture of dehumanization in correctional facilities has gone unchecked, feeding into the historical injustices rooted in slavery and segregation. These institutions must be reformed to reflect the values of accountability, equity, and respect for human dignity.
We join the chorus of voices demanding transparency, accountability, and swift justice for those responsible for this heinous act. Our commitment as members of The Ethical Society of Police is to advocate for policies and practices that uphold the sanctity of all lives, ensure officer accountability, and build a criminal justice system deserving of public trust.
Let Robert Brooks’ name stand as a call to action—a reminder that no life is expendable and that our duty to serve and protect extends to all, without exception. This reckoning is long overdue. We demand justice, reform, and the restoration of humanity in every corner of our profession.