Monthly Archives: June 2023

NYC prosecutor drops over 300 convictions tied to officers found guilty of crimes

Manhattan’s top prosecutor on Tuesday disavowed over 300 convictions tied to police officers who were themselves found guilty of crimes, the latest in over 1,000 dismissals citywide of cases connected to officers who were charged or convicted. The latest abandoned convictions, almost all misdemeanors, date back as far as 1996. Each involves one of nine officers who were later convicted of on-the-job offenses — among them taking bribes, illegally selling guns, lying under oath and planting drugs on suspects — and are no longer on the force.

Over 300 Cases Tied to Convicted N.Y.P.D. Officers Are Tossed Out

The Manhattan district attorney’s office on Tuesday sought the dismissal of 316 convictions tied to a group of New York Police Department officers, sergeants and detectives who have been convicted of crimes related to their work. Hundreds of misdemeanors were thrown out in court on Tuesday, and eight felonies are expected to be tossed Wednesday. The reason was due process violations, according to a statement from the district attorney, Alvin L. Bragg. The convictions occurred between 1996 and 2017. Fifty-seven resulted in incarceration and 132 in fines, according to a news release.

D.A. Bragg Announces Indictment In Arson That Killed Two Puppies

“We allege that Wattie Folk set fire to this apartment knowing that it would put the lives of these helpless dogs at risk. The fire endangered the people living in the building, killed two puppies, and severely injured five other dogs,” said District Attorney Bragg. “People and animals should be safe in their homes, and we will prosecute those who endanger their lives.” 

D.A. Bragg Announces Indictment In Brutal Attack of UES Juice Bar Employee

“As alleged, Cha’la Jamison viciously attacked a juice bar employee over a declined transaction, leaving him on the ground and bleeding profusely,” said District Attorney Bragg. “This stabbing should not have happened and could have led to a tragic death. Our store workers deserve to be safe at work and should not have to fear they will get attacked by customers for simply doing their jobs. My thoughts are with the victim as he continues healing from his injuries.”

D.A. Bragg Moves to Vacate 316 Convictions Tied to NYPD Members Convicted of Criminal Conduct

“Today’s announcement makes clear that we are continuing to prioritize investigating and clearing convictions that undermine trust in the criminal justice system. This work is essential for improving public safety and achieving fundamental fairness. We cannot stand by convictions that are built on cases brought by members of law enforcement who have violated the law.”