New York City Police Sergeant Indicted for Manslaughter in Fatal Incident
ICARO Media Group
In a shocking turn of events, a New York City police sergeant, identified as Erik Duran, has been indicted for the death of Eric Duprey, who tragically lost his life after a scooter crash in August. The New York State Attorney General's Office announced the charges on Tuesday, which include manslaughter in the second degree, assault in the first and second degrees, and criminally negligent homicide.
If convicted of the top charge in the indictment, Sgt. Duran could face up to 25 years in prison. The indictment comes after Duran pleaded not guilty at his arraignment in the Bronx and posted a $150,000 bail, with numerous police officers showing up in support.
According to Duran's attorney, John D'Alessandro, the incident unfolded when Duprey, who was allegedly driving his motorbike at a speed of 40 mph on a crowded sidewalk, posed a significant threat to bystanders and police officers. D'Alessandro claims that Sgt. Duran made a split-second decision to prevent serious injuries or deaths to those involved.
The incident occurred during an undercover drug purchase operation that Duran was conducting in the Bronx on August 23. Surveillance footage captured Duran grabbing a plastic cooler from a nearby table and throwing it at Duprey, striking him in the head. Tragically, Duprey lost control of his vehicle, crashing into a tree and hitting his head on the curb, resulting in his immediate death.
Following Duprey's untimely demise, Duran, 37, was suspended without pay and was later placed on modified duty. He has been the subject of an extensive investigation by the New York State Attorney General for several months. Duran is expected to appear in court again on April 18.
Expressing her grief, Orlyalis Velez, Duprey's wife, has been vocal about her desire to see Duran imprisoned. She views the incident as an abuse of power and claims that there was no justification for taking her husband's life, as he was unarmed. Velez has been resolute in her pursuit of justice, emphasizing her desire to see Duran face the consequences of his actions.
Speaking on behalf of the grieving family, their attorney, Jonathan Roberts, expressed some relief that progress was being made in holding Sgt. Duran accountable for the tragic and senseless killing of Eric Duprey. Roberts described Duprey as a loving partner, father, and son.
As the case progresses, the community awaits further developments, hoping for justice to be served in this devastating incident that claimed the life of a beloved individual.