Roberts Death: AG’s OSI Clears Buffalo Officer in Fatal Traffic Stop

New York – In a stunning turn of events, the Office of Special Investigation (OSI) under Attorney General Letitia James today released its report detailing the tragic death of Daevon Roberts. The OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that an officer’s actions were unjustified during their encounter with Roberts.

Roberts was killed on July 10, 2024, after a high-speed chase following a traffic stop by Buffalo Police Department (BPD) officers. During the incident, Roberts’ vehicle accelerated while an officer was dragged along the pavement, reaching speeds of up to 70 MPH. The officer fired his weapon in self-defense after attempting to de-escalate the situation.

The report, which scrutinized footage from body-worn cameras and interviews with involved parties, stated that under New York law, the officer’s use of deadly force was justified as Roberts posed an immediate threat to the officer’s life. The OSI determined no charges would be pursued in the matter.

According to the report, around midnight on July 10, BPD officers attempted to stop Roberts for speeding on Kensington Avenue. When Roberts failed to provide identification and instead accelerated his vehicle, dragging an officer with it, the officer feared for his life. The officer’s last resort was to use deadly force to protect himself.

Community members and activists have expressed outrage over the OSI’s findings, questioning the thoroughness of the investigation and the legality of the officer’s actions. Protests are expected in the coming days as calls for justice for Roberts grow louder.

The OSI’s decision not to pursue charges leaves many with unanswered questions about police conduct during traffic stops and the use of force. The case has sparked a renewed debate over law enforcement practices and accountability in New York.