DPD Officer Exonerated in Zalewski Fatality Case

New York – A harrowing tale of tragedy and police oversight unfolds as the Office of Special Investigation (OSI) under Attorney General Letitia James clears a Dewitt Police Department (DPD) officer in the October 2023 death of Steven Zalewski.

The OSI report, which meticulously reviewed DPD reports, interviews, and body-worn camera footage, concluded that criminal charges are unwarranted. The incident, which occurred on Bridge Street in Dewitt, Onondaga County, left Mr. Zalewski dead after an officer’s car ran over him while responding to a call.

According to the report, the officer was traveling within the speed limit and there is no evidence of impairment by drugs or alcohol. The body-worn camera footage did not show the officer using his phone or any equipment during the incident. Toxicology tests revealed the officer was on a prescription medication but there’s no indication it affected his ability to drive.

While OSI acknowledged the gravity of Zalewski’s death, they noted that without concrete evidence proving the officer caused the death or acted with gross negligence, charges were not deemed appropriate. They also recommended that all patrol officers and supervisors receive training in PBTs and field sobriety tests for enhanced accuracy following motor vehicle collisions.

The report serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding police-involved deaths and the thorough investigation required before any conclusions are drawn.

New York Attorney General James’ OSI has once again emphasized the need for robust legal analysis in such sensitive cases, ensuring justice is served while upholding officer integrity.

RELATED: Zalewski Death: No Charges for Officer in Dewitt Crash