10 Corrections Officers Indicted in the Death of Midstate Correctional Inmate
A recent case has come to light involving the tragic death of an inmate at Midstate Correctional Facility, which has sparked both public outrage and legal consequences for the officers involved. Messiah Nantoui, a 22-year-old inmate, died on March 1st, 2025, under disturbing circumstances that have led to 10 corrections officers facing severe charges, including murder, manslaughter, gang assault, conspiracy, and evidence tampering.
The incident began when Nantoui intervened in a situation involving another inmate’s attempt to obtain medication. This action, seemingly minor, escalated rapidly when a group of officers responded with unnecessary and excessive force. According to the indictment, the officers beat Nantoui with their fists, boots, and batons, delivering 69 blows to his body. The assault continued in a stairwell on the way to the infirmary, and even after Nantoui was placed in a holding cell in the infirmary, the officers continued their brutal attack.
The Unfolding of the Tragic Incident
At 10:55 a.m. on March 1st, Messiah Nantoui was reported to be fine, but just three minutes later, a radio call was made requesting backup and an assert team response. Special prosecutor Bill Fitzpatrick explained that the attack spiraled out of control unnecessarily. He described the assault as depraved and so egregious that it was elevated to the level of intentional murder under New York law. The beating was not a result of any perceived threat but an unprovoked, brutal act of aggression that involved multiple officers.
Nantoui was later found in a holding cell, severely beaten, with his body showing signs of significant trauma. The prosecutors claim that after the attack, the officers made a conscious effort to cover up their actions. Many of the officers involved in the assault reportedly turned off their body cameras, hid them in areas where they could not capture footage, or simply ignored the situation. This deliberate attempt to conceal the events was part of a broader conspiracy that aimed to hide the officers’ wrongdoing.
The Conspiracy to Cover Up the Crime
As the investigation unfolded, it became clear that the situation had been orchestrated not only as an assault but also as a deliberate attempt to cover it up. Evidence presented in court showed that some officers conspired to plant a weapon on Nantoui’s body, which was caught on body-worn cameras. Two officers were filmed discussing the plan to place the weapon on Nantoui posthumously, in an attempt to justify their actions and frame him as a threat.
This conspiracy to plant evidence was part of a larger effort to deceive investigators and the public. The body camera footage captured the discussion between the officers about how to handle the aftermath of the deadly assault, further implicating them in the cover-up. This not only exposed the brutality of the incident but also demonstrated the lengths to which the officers were willing to go to avoid accountability.
Legal Consequences for the Officers Involved
As a result of the investigation, 10 corrections officers were indicted on various charges, ranging from murder and manslaughter to conspiracy and tampering with physical evidence. Among the defendants, Caleb Blair and Jonah Levi face the most serious charges, including manslaughter, gang assault, and conspiracy. Other officers, such as Thomas EC, Craig Clemik, Daniel Burgerer, Francis Chandler, and David Ferron, have been charged with conspiracy. Nicholas Vatitali faces charges of tampering with evidence, while Daniel Slawson and Michael Ephert have been accused of offering false instruments for filing.
Some officers have already begun cooperating with authorities in the investigation, with six individuals agreeing to plead guilty to felonies or misdemeanors. However, the 10 officers who appeared in court recently will return to Onidita County Court in May to report on plea offers. Bail was set for some of the officers, and those who could afford it posted bond.
The Response and Accountability
The case has drawn widespread attention, with many calling for justice for Messiah Nantoui and accountability for the officers involved. The New York State Corrections Commissioner acknowledged the failure of the system and promised to improve conditions and oversight at correctional facilities. A full review of the system is currently underway, with external law firms being hired to conduct an investigation into the practices at Midstate and Marcy Correctional Facilities.
The death of Messiah Nantoui has raised serious questions about the treatment of inmates in correctional facilities and the conduct of corrections officers. The brutality of the attack and the subsequent cover-up efforts highlight the systemic issues within the prison system that need urgent attention.
As the case continues to develop, the families and supporters of those affected are hoping for justice to be served, not only for Messiah Nantoui but also to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in the future. The outcome of this case may serve as a pivotal moment in addressing the issue of excessive force and corruption within the correctional system.