New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has issued a Notification of Investigative Findings regarding the investigation into the death of Mark Bemis, who died on June 18, 2025 after an encounter with members of the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) in Chautauqua County.
According to OSI, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers’ use of deadly physical force was justified under the law. The investigation found that two CCSO deputies responded to a 911 call reporting a domestic dispute at Bemis’ house, where they encountered him holding a shotgun. After a confrontation in which both sides exchanged gunfire, Bemis was struck and pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident was captured on the deputies’ body-worn cameras, which OSI reviewed as part of the investigation. The agency’s assessment of the evidence and legal analysis led to the conclusion that the officers’ use of deadly force was justified.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI is required to conduct a full investigation into incidents where a police officer or peace officer may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. In cases where the evidence and legal analysis are clear, OSI may issue a Notification of Investigative Findings announcing the conclusion of the investigation, as was done in this case.
The final Investigation Report will follow at a later date, as required by law.
OSI’s investigation into the death of Mark Bemis serves as a reminder of the complexity and sensitivity of police-involved shootings. While the investigation found no wrongdoing on the part of the CCSO, it highlights the need for continued scrutiny and transparency in these cases.
The OSI’s findings have sparked debate and concern among community leaders and activists, who continue to push for reforms aimed at reducing police violence and promoting accountability.
The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office has maintained that the use of deadly force was justifiable, citing the circumstances of the confrontation and the actions of Bemis.
A grand jury will not be convened in this case, as per OSI’s findings.
OSI’s investigation is a crucial step in ensuring that justice is served and that the public has confidence in the actions of law enforcement agencies.
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