The NYPD launched on Feb. 4 the physique digital camera footage from the controversial Queens police capturing final month of a knife-wielding man in psychological misery, putting additional scrutiny on the function of cops in psychiatric emergencies.
NYPD
A 22-year-old Queens man who was shot a number of occasions by police throughout what authorities described as a psychological well being disaster has been indicted on tried assault and weapon expenses — prompting criticism from his protection attorneys and Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
A grand jury indicted Jabez Chakraborty, of Briarwood, on expenses of first-degree tried assault and fourth-degree legal possession of a weapon, Queens District Legal professional Melinda Katz introduced on Friday.
Chakraborty — who had been on a ventilator, at one level, whereas hospitalized after the capturing — was arraigned earlier than Queens Supreme Courtroom Justice Jessica Earle-Gargan, who ordered him to return to court docket on March 11. He faces as much as 15 years in jail if convicted.
District Legal professional Katz stated that, in line with the costs and investigation, on Jan. 26 at roughly 10:25 a.m., a 911 name was positioned by certainly one of Chakraborty’s family members reporting that he was throwing glass contained in the household residence.
When two NYPD officers arrived and have been let inside, they noticed Chakraborty within the kitchen, in line with prosecutors and body-cam footage launched earlier this month. He then grabbed a big knife and began strolling towards them.
“The defendant allegedly advanced toward the officer and changed his grip on the knife to flip the blade upside down while winding his right arm back,” the district lawyer’s workplace stated.
When an officer backed up and closed a door separating the house’s lobby from the lounge, Chakraborty allegedly opened the lobby door and continued towards the officer, who fired 4 occasions at him. The officer instructed Chakraborty to place the knife down no less than eight occasions earlier than discharging his firearm, in line with prosecutors.
Chakraborty was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Middle, the place he has been receiving remedy for the reason that incident.
Jabez Chakraborty was shot at his Briarwood, Queens residence on Jan. 26, after his household known as 911 in search of an ambulance for his or her son, who they are saying was in emotional misery.Photograph Offered by Chakraborty Household
“As alleged, the defendant tried to attack a police officer while holding a large knife, ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon, and then forcibly pushed through a door the officer was using as a shield to protect himself,” Katz stated within the launch.
“The officer then discharged his weapon and hit Jabez Chakraborty four times. As prosecutors, we are duty-bound to follow the facts, evidence and circumstances where they lead us, including in cases that have a mental health component. These decisions, however, must be thoughtful, deliberative and based on the expertise of mental health professionals. Dispositions can take vastly different forms, and I will use the resources of my office to address the unique needs in this case while upholding my responsibility to keep this borough safe.”
Advocates fume over indictment
The Authorized Assist Society, which is representing Chakraborty, stated he has no prior legal convictions and was shot a number of occasions after his household requested medical assist.
“Jabez Chakraborty, who has no prior criminal convictions, was shot multiple times by NYPD officers and is now fighting to recover,” the group stated in a press release. “His family requested an ambulance, seeking trained medical responders.”
The group stated Chakraborty underwent a number of surgical procedures, was positioned on a ventilator and stays hospitalized. It added that he has been shackled to his mattress and underneath fixed police supervision whereas drifting out and in of consciousness.
In its assertion, the Authorized Assist Society additionally alleged that officers questioned members of the family about their immigration standing, seized their telephones and passwords, and held them at a precinct for hours with out clear details about Chakraborty’s situation. Police officers haven’t publicly responded to these claims.
“Full discovery from the District Attorney’s office is still pending and will be carefully reviewed. Like every New Yorker represented by our office, Mr. Chakraborty will receive a robust and vigorous defense,” Authorized Assist stated.
Previous to Friday’s arraignment, Mayor Mamdani stated he had not spoken instantly with the district lawyer however expressed sympathy for the household and questioned the choice to prosecute.
“No family should have to endure this kind of pain,” Mamdani stated. “What they need right now is care, dignity, and support.”
The mayor stated Chakraborty “should not be prosecuted” and as a substitute ought to be receiving psychological well being remedy.
“His handcuffs should be removed, and he should be receiving the care that he needs,” Mamdani stated. “Moments like this lay bare what so many New Yorkers already know — that our city must build a mental health response rooted in prevention, compassion and crisis care.”
