Staten Island Man Dies After Potential Police Brutality Incident

     There is no question that Police Officers, in general, are brave, respectable individuals who put their lives on the line to protect us all. Unfortunately, there are a small number of police officers who have abused the authority and power given to them and hurt, or even killed, the citizens they were sworn to protect. These incidents, however uncommon, can be so disturbing that the stories spread throughout the community and can result in severe distrust for members of the police force. Recently, an incident occurred in New York City which has brought the discussion of police brutality.

     On July 17, 2014 a 43-year old Staten Island man, Eric Garner, died after an encounter with New York City police officers. A number of NYPD officers approached Garner regarding an investigation into the illegal sale of cigarettes. Witnesses stated that an argument broke out between Garner and the officers, and at some point one of the officers placed the asthmatic Garner in a chokehold. Garner reportedly fell to the ground and passed out after telling the officer he could not breath. He was pronounced dead later that evening at Richmond University Medical Center, although the cause of death has yet to be determined. The incident was filmed by witnesses, a copy of the video (Warning: May be disturbing) can be found here.

     During a press conference with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and New York City Police Commissioner William J. Bratton, Commissioner Bratton stated that it was against NYPD policy to use chokeholds, even when interacting with individuals who may be resisting arrest. This incident has prompted an investigation into the cause of Garner's death and the possible violation of Garner's civil rights by the officers. Some have accused these officers of using excessive force against Garner, and the incident has sparked anger in the community against the NYPD.

    Regardless of the result of the investigation into the Garner incident, there are certainly incidents in which police officers have abused their power and violated citizens' civil rights. If you, a friend or a loved one has been the victim of excessive force, false arrest, illegal search and seizures, or any other civil rights violation by a member of the police, it is recommended that they talk to a licensed and competent attorney.

*This is attorney advertising, and is not intended to be taken as legal advice, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship. Any advice given in the preceding statement is given as general advice and is not intended to be relied upon as legal advice for any specific scenarios. For specific advice, or for answers to your questions, call Eckert & Smestad (312-789-4810) or call a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.