Posted on: February 25, 2025 07:00 PM

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Indictments unsealed in the homicide investigation of Robert Brooks

On February 24, 2025, Oneida County Court Judge Robert Bauer unsealed an indictment returned by a specially empaneled Oneida County Grand Jury, which was convened exclusively to hear evidence in the investigation into the December 9, 2024, homicide of Marcy Correctional Facility incarcerated individual Robert Brooks, age 43.

As a result of this investigation, Nicholas J. Kieffer, age 33, of Whitesboro, NY, was arrested and charged with the following offenses:

Murder in the Second Degree

Manslaughter in the First Degree

Gang Assault in the Second Degree

Offering a False Instrument for Filing in the First Degree

 New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James stated, "Today's arrest is a testament to the relentless dedication and professionalism of our investigators. The brutal nature of this crime is deeply disturbing, and the level of violence inflicted upon Robert Brooks was egregious. Our members have worked tirelessly to ensure those responsible are held accountable. We hope this arrest brings some measure of justice to the family and loved ones of Mr. Brooks."

The New York State Police extends its appreciation to the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office and Medical Examiner’s Office for their critical assistance throughout this investigation.

The State Police were first notified of Robert Brooks’ death early in the morning on December 10, 2024. Our investigation commenced immediately, led by the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) in Troop D.

Recognizing the complexity and seriousness of this case, we committed substantial resources, including expertise and support from the Special Investigations Unit, the Troop D Computer Crimes Unit, the Forensic Investigation Unit, and the Forensic Video Multimedia Services Unit.

These efforts included the investigation of over 400 separate leads, the analysis of hundreds of pieces of evidence, and the execution of 16 search warrants.

On February 20, 2025, the following individuals were arrested and arraigned in Oneida County Court.

From NYSP