NYPD Sergeant Convicted of Manslaughter in Bronx Death After Throwing Cooler at Fleeing Suspect
NEW YORK, N.Y. — A New York City Police Department sergeant was convicted Friday of manslaughter in the fatal incident involving a plastic cooler thrown at a scooter-riding suspect fleeing a drug bust in the Bronx. Sgt. Erik Duran, 38, was found guilty in the August 2023 death of Eric Duprey, who was attempting to escape undercover officers after allegedly selling $20 worth of cocaine.
During the trial, testimony revealed that Duprey was speeding along a sidewalk on a scooter when Sgt. Duran hurled the plastic cooler at him, striking him fatally. The incident occurred amid a drug bust operation, highlighting the complexities and dangers law enforcement officers face during such confrontations. However, the court determined that Sgt. Duran’s actions were criminally negligent.
Duran’s conviction marks a significant moment for the NYPD, as he is the first officer in the city to be found guilty of a crime related to an on-duty killing in over ten years. The case was decided by a judge rather than a jury after Duran waived his right to a jury trial. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 19 and could face up to 15 years in prison.
The case has drawn attention to police conduct and accountability in New York City, a topic that remains under intense public scrutiny nationwide. The NYPD has faced numerous calls for reform in recent years, especially regarding use-of-force policies.
Legal experts note that manslaughter convictions of law enforcement officers in the line of duty are rare, underscoring the gravity of the court’s decision. The U.S. Department of Justice has often been involved in monitoring police misconduct cases, emphasizing the importance of upholding justice and accountability.
The incident also raises questions about pursuit tactics and the use of force against suspects fleeing on vehicles such as scooters. The Office of Justice Programs provides guidelines and research on law enforcement best practices, which agencies nationwide consult to reduce harm during arrests.
Community leaders in the Bronx have expressed mixed reactions, with some calling for enhanced police training and others urging systemic reforms to prevent similar tragedies. The case adds to the ongoing national conversation about policing, public safety, and civil rights.
As the sentencing date approaches, attention will remain focused on the implications of this conviction for the NYPD and law enforcement agencies across the country. The outcome may influence future policies on police accountability and the legal standards applied to officers involved in fatal encounters.
For more information on police conduct and legal standards, readers can visit the American Civil Liberties Union’s police practices page and the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
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