New York Attorney General Letitia James' Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has released a Notification of Investigative Findings concerning the death of Daevon Roberts. Roberts died on July 10, 2024, following an encounter with Buffalo Police Department officers in Buffalo. The OSI concluded that it would be challenging for a prosecutor to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer's use of deadly force was justified under current law. A final Investigation Report is forthcoming.
The incident occurred around midnight on July 10 when two BPD officers stopped a speeding car driven by Roberts on Kensington Avenue in Buffalo. During the traffic stop, officers attempted to obtain valid identification from Roberts. When asked to step out and assist with identification, Roberts instead accelerated the vehicle while an officer was holding onto the door, dragging him along. The officer tried to brake but was kicked by Roberts, who also attempted to seize the officer's gun. In response, the officer discharged his weapon at Roberts, who later died at a local hospital.
The event was recorded on an officer’s body-worn camera. Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI evaluates incidents where police or peace officers may have caused a person's death through action or omission. If evidence suggests potential responsibility by an officer, OSI conducts a full investigation.
When evidence and legal analysis are clear and investigations complete, OSI issues Notifications of Investigative Findings and subsequently releases final reports as mandated by law.