N.Y. OSI Probes Civilian Death in Suffolk Encounter

New York – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has announced an investigation into the tragic death of Henry Sanders, who succumbed on August 1, 2024, following a confrontation with members of the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD).

On that fateful morning at 10:22 a.m., SCPD officers were dispatched to North 15th Street and Merritt Avenue in Wyandanch after multiple emergency calls. Upon arriving on the scene, they apprehended Mr. Sanders, who soon thereafter became unresponsive. He was swiftly transported to a local hospital, where he was declared dead.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI is mandated to evaluate every incident involving potential police misconduct that results in death. This law applies to officers both on and off-duty, irrespective of the victim’s status or weaponry. If an officer’s role is deemed suspect by OSI, a thorough investigation ensues.

OSI has been engaged in a preliminary assessment of this case since August 1, 2024. The emergence of new information prompted OSI to initiate a formal investigation into the incident involving Mr. Sanders.

These are preliminary facts and are subject to change as the investigation unfolds.