New York Attorney General Letitia James released police body-worn camera footage obtained during the investigation into the death of Djamshed Nematov, who died on March 8, 2024, following an encounter with New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers in Queens.
On March 8, NYPD received a 911 call reporting a man stabbing his wife in a second-floor apartment in Queens. Upon arrival, officers found Mr. Nematov in the hallway holding a knife. Mr. Nematov allegedly advanced toward the officers with the knife raised. One officer deployed his taser while two others fired their service weapons. Mr. Nematov was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. Officers recovered two knives at the scene.
The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) of the Attorney General’s Office released videos from body-worn cameras that NYPD officers were equipped with during the incident. This release follows Attorney General James’ directive to make camera footage obtained by her office public to increase transparency and strengthen public trust.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported where a police officer or peace officer may have caused a person's death by an act or omission. The law applies whether the officer is on-duty or off-duty and whether the decedent is armed or unarmed, in custody or not incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, it proceeds with a full investigation.
"The release of this footage is not an expression of any opinion as to the guilt or innocence of any party in a criminal matter," stated Attorney General James' office.
Warning: This video contains content that viewers may find disturbing.