New York – The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) under New York Attorney General Letitia James has concluded its probe into the fatal shooting of Geoffrey Parris by a NYPD officer on February 12, 2024. According to OSI, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer’s actions were unjustified.
On the fateful morning, officers responded to reports of gunshots in Queens and encountered Parris inside an apartment. During the encounter, the brother of the deceased informed the officers that Parris had brandished a black gun at him. The incident escalated when Parris reportedly retrieved an object resembling a firearm, prompting the officer to discharge his weapon.
OSI’s report indicates that under New York law, police are allowed to use deadly force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to protect against the use of deadly force by another. With the history of gunshots and Parris pointing a gun at his brother, OSI found no grounds for pursuing criminal charges against the officer.
During the investigation, OSI reviewed footage from body-worn cameras, audio from a 911 call, and conducted interviews with involved officers. Despite recovering a BB gun at the scene, it was determined that the officer’s use of deadly force was justified based on the circumstances presented.
The family of Geoffrey Parris expressed disappointment in the OSI’s findings, contending that the investigation did not fully account for the impact of the shooting on their lives and seeking further review. Meanwhile, the NYPD stands by the officer involved, who is now back on active duty.
This case has reignited debates surrounding police use of force and the need for more transparency in investigations into officer-involved shootings. OSI’s report serves as a reminder that, despite public outcry, legal justifications can sometimes result in officers escaping criminal charges following deadly force incidents.
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Key Facts
- State: New York
- Agency: NY AG
- Category: Public Corruption|Weapons|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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