Rochester, N.Y. - The Rochester Police Locust Club has expressed its disagreement with statements made by certain members of the Rochester City Council regarding a recent officer-involved shooting on Murray Street. Council Vice President Mary Lupien and councilmembers Kim Smith and Stanley Martin released a statement extending condolences to the family and friends of Todd Novick, who was shot and killed by a Rochester police officer on Christmas Eve while allegedly fleeing and in possession of a toy gun.

In their statement, the councilmembers emphasized the need to examine systemic failures that might have contributed to this preventable tragedy, including policies on police foot pursuits and the sale of realistic toy weapons. They called on Mayor Evans and Corporation Counsel to collaborate with the Rochester Police Accountability Board for an independent and transparent investigation, as well as support any recommended changes to RPD training, policies, or procedures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.

The Rochester Police Locust Club responded to the councilmembers' comments a day later, denouncing their characterization of the incident. The union argued that referring to the toy gun as "misleading and inflammatory" and expressed strong disagreement with the councilmembers' claims, stating that the Locust Club members involved in the incident acted in accordance with their training, RPD policies, and applicable state and federal laws. The union asserted its willingness to cooperate with the Attorney General's investigation into the matter.

Highlighting that any loss of life during police duties is tragic, the Locust Club emphasized that officers' responses are determined by the suspects' actions. The union pointed out that without a close inspection, it is impossible to discern whether the replica gun was real or not, highlighting that the councilmembers should focus on the numerous senseless murders within the community.

While extending condolences to the family of the individual involved in the incident, the Locust Club also stressed its commitment to supporting the well-being of its members and their families, who have been significantly impacted by these events.

The deadly officer-involved shooting on Murray Street has sparked controversy, with differing opinions between the Rochester Police Locust Club and certain members of the Rochester City Council. As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers and calls for transparency and accountability in order to prevent similar tragedies in the future.