SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – In a shocking turn of events, three prison guards have pleaded guilty to violating the rights of an inmate at Mid-State Correctional Facility. Brandon Montanari, age 34, Rohail Kahn, age 28, and Michael Williams, age 38, have each admitted to depriving an inmate of his rights under color of law.
The crime, which took place in April 2023, involved the guards punching and kicking the inmate without cause, causing bodily injury. In addition to the physical assault, the guards also agreed to lie about the incident during an internal investigation.
The investigation, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) with assistance from the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision Office of Special Investigations, uncovered the shocking abuse of power by the prison guards.
As part of their guilty plea, each defendant faces a maximum imprisonment term of 10 years, a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to three years, and a maximum fine of $250,000. The sentencings are scheduled for late July and August.
The FBI special agent in charge of the Albany Field Office, Craig L. Tremaroli, and United States Attorney John A. Sarcone III announced the guilty pleas. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael F. Perry and Michael D. Gadarian.
The guilty plea of these three prison guards sends a clear message that abuse of power will not be tolerated. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and provide updates on the sentencing.
Defendant: Brandon Montanari, Rohail Kahn, and Michael Williams
Criminal Charges: Depriving an inmate of his rights under color of law
City and State: Syracuse, New York
Crime Date: April 2023
Sentence: Maximum imprisonment term of 10 years, term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to three years, and a maximum fine of $250,000
Dollar Amounts: $250,000
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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