New York Attorney General Letitia James has released police body-worn camera footage obtained as part of the ongoing investigation into the death of Geoffrey Parris. Parris died on February 12, 2024, following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens.
On the morning of February 12, NYPD officers responded to reports of shots fired at an apartment on Beach 51st Street in Queens. Upon arrival, officers encountered Mr. Parris who was reportedly holding what appeared to be a gun. An officer ordered Mr. Parris to drop the gun and when he failed to do so, an officer fired his service weapon, striking Mr. Parris. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered a BB gun at the scene.
The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) within the Attorney General’s Office released video from a body-worn camera that one of the NYPD officers had during the incident. This release follows Attorney General James’ directive for transparency by making camera footage obtained during OSI investigations public.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported where a police or peace officer may have caused a person's death by act or omission. The law covers both on-duty and off-duty officers and includes situations where the decedent may be armed or unarmed, in custody or not incarcerated. If OSI's assessment indicates potential officer involvement in causing death, it proceeds with a full investigation.
The release of this footage does not imply any opinion regarding guilt or innocence in any criminal matter nor how or whether any individual may be charged with a crime.
"Warning: This video contains content that viewers may find disturbing."