New York Attorney General Letitia James' Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has released a report regarding the death of Shawn Sheridan, who died on August 10, 2023, following an encounter with law enforcement in Russell, St. Lawrence County. The investigation involved witness interviews, reviews of officer interviews, and legal analysis. OSI concluded that it would be challenging for a prosecutor to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the New York State Police (NYSP) trooper who shot Mr. Sheridan was justified under New York law.
Mr. Sheridan had failed to appear at St. Lawrence County Supreme Court on July 18, 2023, for sentencing on a felony conviction. He was sentenced in absentia to 12.5 years in prison, and a bench warrant was issued for his arrest. A search detail comprising members of the St. Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office (SLCSO), NYSP, Canton Village Police Department (CVPD), and the St. Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office was formed to execute this warrant.
On August 10, officers found Mr. Sheridan in Donnerville State Forest in Russell. He was wearing camouflage and holding a long gun when he fired a shot at officers. In response, an NYSP trooper discharged his weapon multiple times, striking Mr. Sheridan who was pronounced dead at the scene. Two guns and a bandolier were recovered.
According to New York's justification law, police may use deadly force if they reasonably believe it necessary to defend against deadly force by another person. In this case, Mr. Sheridan's actions led officials to determine that criminal charges against the trooper would not be pursued as his use of force appeared justified.