NYPD Sergeant Found Guilty of Manslaughter in Fatal Cooler-Throwing Incident
A New York City police sergeant has been convicted of second-degree manslaughter after he threw a picnic cooler filled with drinks at a fleeing suspect, leading to a fatal motorised scooter crash. The verdict was delivered on Friday in Bronx criminal court, marking a significant legal outcome in a case that has drawn widespread attention.
Judge Delivers Guilty Verdict in High-Profile Case
Judge Guy Mitchell handed down the guilty verdict against Sgt. Erik Duran for the 2023 death of Eric Duprey. In a brief hearing, the judge stated, "The fact that the defendant was a police officer makes no difference. He was treated as any other defendant." Duran showed little reaction to the decision, while members of Duprey's family were visibly emotional in the courtroom.
The 38-year-old officer faces a potential prison sentence of up to 15 years, with sentencing scheduled for March 19. Duran is the first NYPD officer in years to be tried for killing someone while on duty. An assault charge was dismissed earlier, as prosecutors failed to prove intent to harm.
Details of the Tragic Incident Emerge
Authorities reported that on August 23, 2023, Duprey sold drugs to an undercover officer in the Bronx and attempted to flee the scene. Security footage captured Duran, who was part of a narcotics unit, grabbing a nearby red cooler and hurling it at Duprey in an effort to stop him.
The container, filled with ice, water, and sodas, struck Duprey, causing him to lose control of his scooter. He slammed into a tree, crashed onto the pavement, and ended up under a parked car. Prosecutors noted that the 30-year-old, who was not wearing a helmet, sustained fatal head injuries and died almost instantly.
Defense and Prosecution Present Contrasting Arguments
During his testimony this week, Duran defended his actions, claiming he had only seconds to react and was trying to protect other officers as Duprey sped towards them. He told the court, "He was gonna crash into us. I didn't have time. All I had time for was to try again to stop or to try to get him to change directions. That's all I had the time to think of." Duran added that he immediately attempted to render aid after seeing the extent of Duprey's injuries.
However, prosecutors argued that Duprey did not pose a threat and that his death resulted from Duran's reckless, negligent, and intentional actions. They suggested the officer had sufficient time to warn others to move but instead acted out of anger and frustration by tossing the cooler.
Background of the Individuals Involved
Eric Duprey was a Bronx resident and father of three who worked as a delivery driver. He had moved to New York from Puerto Rico as a teenager. His death has sparked discussions about police conduct and accountability in high-pressure situations.
Duran had pleaded not guilty and opted for a bench trial, meaning a judge, rather than a jury, rendered the verdict. The trial opened on January 14 and was prosecuted by the office of State Attorney General Letitia James, which investigates civilian deaths during encounters with law enforcement.
According to the police department, Duran is currently suspended with pay pending the outcome of the trial. This case highlights ongoing debates over police tactics and the legal standards applied to officers in the line of duty.
