An investigation is currently underway regarding the incident.
According to Commissioner Daniel Martuscello of the New York State Department of Corrections and Community, staff members at Marcy were involved in an incident of using force on December 9th. As a result, the incarcerated individual involved in the incident was transferred to a nearby hospital.
They were declared dead on December 10th.
“After assessing the situation, I swiftly initiated an investigation conducted by the Department’s Office of Special Investigations, while also informing the New York State Police and the New York State Attorney General,” stated Martuscello. “As an agency, we are fully committed to our responsibility of safeguarding our community and all individuals under our supervision. We unequivocally condemn any form of violence within our correctional facilities. Consequently, all staff members involved have been placed on administrative leave until the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.”
In a statement, Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual who passed away while in custody at Marcy. She mentioned that she had been briefed on the situation.
In response to the initial details provided, a thorough investigation of this incident has been ordered, with a commitment to holding accountable anyone found to have violated laws or DOCCS protocols, as stated by the governor. The correctional system bears the responsibility of offering suitable care and protection to those under its custody, a duty that will not be tolerated if violated by anyone, as emphasized by the governor in her statement.
In her statement, Hochul mentioned that her office and the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision are currently unable to provide details regarding an ongoing investigation.
Martuscello stated that the agency will maintain its commitment to transparency by collaborating with law enforcement and internal stakeholders on the matter.
An inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility has died following an incident involving the use of force by staff, according to reports.