John Chell, chief of patrol at the Police Department, admitted imperfections as protesters amassed in Union Square.
New York City police leaders have defended the actions of officers who shot a man wielding a knife, resulting in injuries to the suspect, a bystander, and a fellow officer. The incident, which occurred at a subway station in Brooklyn, is under investigation by the Brooklyn district attorney’s office. The officers involved will release body-worn camera footage in the coming days to provide transparency about the events leading up to the shooting.
The man with the knife, Derell Mickles, 37, was shot in the stomach and is expected to recover. Another victim, Gregory Delpeche, a 49-year-old hospital administrator, was critically injured after being struck in the head by police gunfire while in his car near the scene. A 26-year-old woman was also grazed by a bullet during the altercation. Despite the injuries sustained by bystanders, police officials maintain that the officers followed department guidelines that permit the use of deadly force when officers believe their lives are in danger.
Chief of Patrol John Chell emphasized that the officers acted in a fast-moving and stressful situation to protect themselves and others present at the scene. The incident began when Mr. Mickles evaded the fare at the Sutter Avenue L train station, leading to a confrontation with the police. The use of force by the officers has sparked criticism and raised concerns about the police’s approach to addressing fare evasion in the city’s subway system, prompting demonstrations and public outcry.
The New York City Police Department’s response to the incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in high-pressure situations and the need for transparency and accountability in the use of force. As the investigation continues, the department will work to address community concerns and ensure that proper protocols are followed to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Source: The NY Times
