Rochester, NY – The heartbreaking death of Robert Brooks, an inmate at Marcy Correctional Facility who was brutally beaten by guards, continues to spark outrage as his father, Robert Ricks, intensifies his fight for justice and systemic reform. In a recent interview with News10NBC’s Jennifer Lewke, Ricks opened up about the pain of losing his son and his determination to ensure no other family suffers the same tragedy.
Ricks described the harrowing experience of watching body camera footage of his son’s beating, a sight he called “shocking to almost all who saw it.” He shared the devastating impact the footage has had on him:
“In the beginning when I looked at it, all I saw was my son. And sometimes today when I close my eyes, what I see is my son in a body bag.”
Ricks’ grief has fueled his mission to demand accountability for his son’s death. He firmly believes the correctional officers responsible should face the full extent of the law, stating:
“The ones who were actively participating in beating my son to death, they should get the same amount of time that I would get if you caught me on tape beating somebody to death.”
A Decade-Long Commitment to Change
For over ten years, Ricks has been dedicated to making a difference in his community. As the leader of a nonprofit organization in Rochester, he works tirelessly to help at-risk youth before they become entangled in the criminal justice system. His mission is clear:
“What I want to do is help to put in place something that is going to ensure the fact that they can go there, they can be better when they come home, and they come home, and not in a body bag like my son did.”
His nonprofit’s efforts focus on intervention, support, and guidance for young individuals, offering them alternatives to a life that could lead to incarceration.
Upcoming Panel Discussion: A Call for Reform
As part of his fight for change, Ricks will be speaking at a crucial panel discussion titled “How Many More? A Call for Change, Action, and Accountability.” The event, hosted by the Rochester Police Accountability Board (PAB), will take place on Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at East High School.
The discussion aims to bring attention to the systemic failures within correctional facilities and law enforcement, calling for necessary reforms to prevent future tragedies like Brooks’ death.
Police Union Pushback and Legal Controversy
Despite the importance of the event, it has faced opposition from the Locust Club, the union representing Rochester police officers. The Locust Club claims that Rochester’s law department has deemed the panel discussion “outside the scope of PAB’s permitted activities.”
Listen to “Bullies with Badges: Why Tough Guy Cops Ruin Law Enforcement” on Spreaker.
The police union argues that the PAB is attempting to link Brooks’ death to the Rochester Police Department (RPD), despite no involvement from RPD officers. They further allege that the taxpayer-funded board is violating the city charter by hosting the event.
A Fight for Justice That Continues
Robert Ricks’ relentless pursuit of justice for his son Robert Brooks serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for prison reform and police accountability. As he continues his advocacy, his message remains clear: communities must come together to demand change, prevent further tragedies, and hold those in power accountable.
The upcoming panel discussion will be a pivotal moment in the fight for transparency and reform within the criminal justice system. Whether met with resistance or not, Ricks and countless supporters refuse to be silenced.
For those seeking to support the movement for justice and reform, attending the event at East High School will be an opportunity to stand in solidarity with families affected by injustice and to be part of the conversation demanding accountability and change.
Stay Updated
For more updates on Robert Brooks’ case and ongoing efforts for criminal justice reform, follow our coverage and sign up for alerts on upcoming events and advocacy opportunities.
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