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Ex-Corrections Officer Convicted of Murdering Handcuffed Inmate

10/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

David Kingsley, a former New York corrections officer, was convicted of murder for beating inmate Robert Brooks, who was handcuffed.
The jury acquitted fellow officers Mathew Galliher and Nicholas Kieffer.
Five other guards previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
Special prosecutor William Fitzpatrick is probing another case in which inmate Messiah Nantwi died, with ten guards indicted.
Sentencing for Kingsley is set for December 16.

History

Historical Context

The Attica Prison riot began on September 9, 1971, as inmates sought better living conditions and political rights, resulting in 43 deaths. Following the violent retaking by law enforcement, which left 39 dead, the incident spurred reforms in the U.S. prison system. However, many improvements were reversed in the 1980s and 1990s, highlighting ongoing issues of violence and accountability in correctional facilities.

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Story summary

David Kingsley, a former New York corrections officer, was convicted of murder for beating inmate Robert Brooks, who was handcuffed.
The jury acquitted fellow officers Mathew Galliher and Nicholas Kieffer.
Five other guards previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter.
Special prosecutor William Fitzpatrick is probing another case in which inmate Messiah Nantwi died, with ten guards indicted.
Sentencing for Kingsley is set for December 16.

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