Timothy Brooks Guilty of Murder in the 2nd Degree

Rochester, NY- On Tuesday, November 15, 2025, a Monroe County jury convicted 21-year-old Timothy Brooks of Murder in the 2nd Degree, Attempted Robbery in the 1st Degree, Attempted Robbery in the 2nd Degree, and Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the 2nd Degree for killing James Jackson, Jr. on August 30, 2024.

On August 30, 2024, at approximately 6:15PM, Rochester Police Officers arrived to Cuba Place in the City of Rochester for a report of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers discovered a vehicle crashed into a pole with 39-year-old James Jackson, Jr. sitting in the driver’s seat, suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was immediately transported to Strong Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Following a detailed investigation by the Rochester Police Department, both Raphael Marquez and Timothy Brooks were arrested for their roles in the homicide of James Jackson, Jr. Raphael Marquez previously pled guilty to Manslaughter in the 1st Degree and was sentence to 23 years in the New York State Department of Corrections plus 5 years of post-release supervision.

The case was prosecuted by Special Assistant District Attorney Emily Chisholm, of the Non-Fatal Shooting Taskforce.

“Last year, Timothy Brooks and Raphael Marquez targeted James Jackson, ambushed him, and killed him,” said Assistant District Attorney Emily Chisholm. “These shots were fired outside on a summer evening, where neighbors could have been shot. Thank you to the Rochester Police Department for conducting this investigation, which led to accountability from both Timothy Brooks and Raphael Marquez. I hope this conviction brings a sense of justice and peace to James Jackson’s family and loved ones, who live with this unimaginable loss.”

“Today’s verdict reflects our continued efforts to address acts of violence and hold those who perpetrate it fully accountable,” said Monroe County District Attorney Brian Green. “James Jackson, Jr. was a member of this community whose life was taken by a senseless act of two young men. Young men who will now serve decades in the New York State Department of Corrections, away from their homes and families. I commend ADA Chisholm and the Rochester Police Department for a thorough investigation that made today’s just verdict possible. Our hearts remain with Mr. Jackson’s family as they continue to grieve his loss.”

Timothy Brooks will be sentenced on January 8, 2025, in front of Monroe County Court Judge Michael Ansaldi.