18 hours ago
Disturbing Footage Emerges of New York Correctional Officers Beating Inmate Prior to His Death
A shocking video has surfaced showing a group of New York correctional officers brutally beating an African-American inmate, who later died in custody. The disturbing footage, obtained by a local news outlet, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability within the state's correctional system.
The incident occurred on December 12, 2022, at the Sullivan Correctional Facility in Fallsburg, New York. The video shows a group of correctional officers, including several white officers, physically assaulting the inmate, identified as 35-year-old Anthony Myrie.
According to reports, Myrie had been serving a sentence for robbery and was housed in a special unit for inmates with mental health issues. On the day of the incident, Myrie allegedly became agitated and refused to follow orders, prompting the correctional officers to intervene.
The footage, which is approximately 10 minutes long, shows the officers using excessive force to subdue Myrie. They can be seen punching, kicking, and slamming him to the ground, despite his apparent attempts to surrender. At one point, an officer is seen using a baton to strike Myrie repeatedly.
Myrie was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly after the incident. An autopsy later revealed that he had suffered a fatal brain injury, which was likely caused by the beating.
The New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (DOCCS) has launched an investigation into the incident, and several correctional officers have been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome.
Civil rights groups and community leaders have condemned the incident, citing concerns about systemic racism and police brutality within the correctional system.
"This is a horrific example of the systemic racism and brutality that exists within our correctional system," said Hazel Dukes, president of the NAACP New York State Conference. "We demand justice for Anthony Myrie and his family, and we call for immediate reforms to address the systemic issues that led to this tragedy."
The incident has also sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability within the DOCCS. Advocates are pushing for the implementation of body-worn cameras for correctional officers, as well as increased training on de-escalation techniques and cultural sensitivity.
In a statement, DOCCS Commissioner Anthony J. Annucci acknowledged the incident and promised a thorough investigation.
"We take these allegations very seriously, and we will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to determine the facts surrounding this incident," Annucci said. "We will also review our policies and procedures to ensure that we are providing a safe and humane environment for all inmates in our care."
As the investigation continues, the family of Anthony Myrie is seeking justice and accountability for his death.
"We just want the truth to come out, and we want those responsible to be held accountable," said Myrie's sister, Tiffany. "We will not rest until justice is served."
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and calls for reform within the correctional system. As the investigation continues, many are left wondering how such a tragic incident could have occurred, and what steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Total Comments: 0