Queens Cop Death Probe Launched

New York – The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has launched a probe into the tragic death of Adrian Cevallos, who succumbed on August 3, 2024, after an incident with NYPD officers in Queens. The OSI had been conducting a preliminary assessment but升级至a full investigation following new evidence.

The fateful encounter unfolded at around 8:36 p.m. when police responded to 911 calls regarding an “emotionally disturbed person” on 62nd Street between 53rd Avenue and 53rd Drive in Queens. Mr. Cevallos, accused of attempting to strike an officer, was struggling with officers as they attempted to cuff him. Amidst the scuffle, one cop deployed a Taser, leaving Mr. Cevallos unresponsive. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI is tasked with assessing every incident reported where an officer may have caused death through action or inaction, regardless of duty status or the decedent’s condition. The law broadly covers both on-duty and off-duty officers as well as the deceased’s armed or unarmed status, and whether they were in custody or incarcerated.

The OSI’s investigation follows a thorough assessment under this law. These are preliminary facts, subject to change as the probe unfolds.

This gritty incident has once again placed police use of force under scrutiny and underscores the critical role of independent investigations in maintaining public trust.