NEW YORK (AP) — Erik Duran, a former New York City police sergeant, was sentenced on Thursday to three to nine years in prison after being convicted of manslaughter for throwing a picnic cooler at Eric Duprey, a fleeing suspect. Duprey crashed his motorized scooter and died following the incident. Duran stated in court that he only intended to protect his fellow officers as Duprey approached on the scooter. However, Judge Guy Mitchell rejected Duran's defense, suggesting that his actions were driven by anger as he attempted to stop Duprey from escaping.
In a poignant moment in court, Duprey's mother wept as she discussed the loss of her son, expressing that words could not capture her grief. The case has sparked debates on police conduct, with Duran's union supporting him despite the conviction, asserting that many officers believe they should not face severe repercussions for defensive actions. Prosecutors contended that Duran's choice to throw the cooler was reckless and indicative of a desire to retaliate rather than to protect.
The incident occurred during a narcotics operation on August 23, 2023, after Duprey allegedly sold drugs to an undercover officer and attempted to flee. Surveillance footage showed Duran throwing the cooler, which struck Duprey, leading to a fatal crash. Duprey was not wearing a helmet at the time. As Duran was taken into custody following the sentencing, his attorney announced plans to appeal the ruling and seek bail.
Gretchen Soto, Duprey's mother, emphasized the human aspect of the incident during her emotional testimony, highlighting her son's role as a father to three children. She stressed that her son deserved justice, noting that he was more than just a name in a case.
In a poignant moment in court, Duprey's mother wept as she discussed the loss of her son, expressing that words could not capture her grief. The case has sparked debates on police conduct, with Duran's union supporting him despite the conviction, asserting that many officers believe they should not face severe repercussions for defensive actions. Prosecutors contended that Duran's choice to throw the cooler was reckless and indicative of a desire to retaliate rather than to protect.
The incident occurred during a narcotics operation on August 23, 2023, after Duprey allegedly sold drugs to an undercover officer and attempted to flee. Surveillance footage showed Duran throwing the cooler, which struck Duprey, leading to a fatal crash. Duprey was not wearing a helmet at the time. As Duran was taken into custody following the sentencing, his attorney announced plans to appeal the ruling and seek bail.
Gretchen Soto, Duprey's mother, emphasized the human aspect of the incident during her emotional testimony, highlighting her son's role as a father to three children. She stressed that her son deserved justice, noting that he was more than just a name in a case.
