Brooklyn Detention Center Inmates Charged After Shocking Events Unfold

Sunset behind prison fence and guard tower.

Nine inmates at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center face serious federal charges after violent assaults resulted in two deaths and multiple injuries.

At a Glance

Nine inmates at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn have been charged with violent assaults.
The assaults resulted in two deaths and several critical injuries.
Five of the individuals charged with murder could face life in prison if convicted.
The Bureau of Prisons is addressing issues at the jail, including understaffing and safety concerns.

Assaults at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center

Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC), a federal facility, has been thrust into the spotlight as nine inmates were charged with violent assaults within its walls. These incidents have led to the deaths of two detainees and multiple injuries among others. U.S. Attorney Breon Peace and FBI Assistant Director in Charge Dennehy emphasized that such violent conduct is unacceptable and will face stringent legal repercussions.

On June 7, inmates Andrew Simpson and Devone Thomas were implicated in the stabbing death of Uriel Whyte. Barely a month later, on July 17, Jamaul Aziz, James Bazemore, and Alberto Santiago were charged with the murder of Edwin Cordero, also via stabbing. Makeshift knives were reportedly used in these fatal attacks.

Federal Charges Announced Against Inmates for Violent Crimes Committed in Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn

Nine Charged in Five Separate Cases for Crimes Ranging from Murder to Assault

🔗: https://t.co/DCxTGqJKpz pic.twitter.com/HgtinlEtfx

— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) September 30, 2024

Details of the Charges

In addition to the murder charges, other inmates face various severe accusations. Luis Rivas encountered charges of attempted murder after stabbing another inmate 44 times in April. Bruce Silva and Hassan Elliott face charges for attempting to stab yet another prisoner, while Leury Mojica faces charges for assaulting a federal officer by punching a guard in the face.

“Violence will not be tolerated in our federal jails,” Peace said. “Let these charges serve as a warning to those who would engage in criminal conduct behind bars, and anyone else who facilitates those crimes: your conduct will be exposed, and you will be held accountable.” –

The FBI and federal prosecution stress the non-negotiable need for safety and order in federal detention centers. The FBI’s Dennehy stated, “Several inmates of Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center allegedly orchestrated a series of distinct violent assaults, including the murders of fellow inmates, Uriel Whyte and Edwin Cordero.”

Arraignments and Institutional Reforms

The indicted inmates are set to face arraignment soon, facing potential life sentences upon conviction. This initiative comes amidst broader efforts by the Bureau of Prisons to rectify long-standing issues within the MDC. Current plans involve increased staffing by roughly 20% and completion of over 800 work orders addressing repair and infrastructure needs.

High-profile detainee Sean “Diddy” Combs is also currently detained at MDC under charges of racketeering, conspiracy, transportation to engage in prostitution, and sex trafficking. His bail requests were denied, partly due to the poor conditions and safety risks at the facility.

Nine inmates were busted for a string of violent attacks and murders at MDC Brooklyn, said federal prosecutors, releasing disturbing details that shine further light on the notorious federal jail’s staffing crisis.https://t.co/QstqvYPWyV

— New York Daily News (@NYDailyNews) October 1, 2024

The Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn remains under intense scrutiny. Recent investigations expose widespread flaws in the Bureau of Prisons, including staffing shortages, consistent violence, and employee misconduct. Prompt actions by federal authorities aim to restore safety and order.

“While this federal jail houses dangerous pretrial inmates, order and safety must remain paramount,” Dennehy continued. “Awaiting potential criminal charges is not a warranted justification to subject a detained individual to unnecessary attacks.”