Yet another controversial ruling in New York.

(Baonghean.vn) - On Wednesday, December 3rd, in less than 10 days, a US grand jury once again decided not to indict a police officer involved in the death of a Black suspect. This decision could further worsen the situation regarding protests in the US.

Fourth, a jury in Staten Island, a New York county, unanimously ruled that police officer Daniel Pantaleo was not responsible for the death of Eric Garner on July 17. Eric Garner, 43, a father of six, was suspected of illegally selling cigarettes at the Staten Island port. Video footage of Garner's arrest showed an unarmed officer pinning him in a chokehold. Garner repeatedly cried out that he couldn't breathe, but the officer didn't loosen his grip until he lost consciousness. He died a few minutes later at the hospital. Medical examiners concluded that the cause of death was asphyxiation due to the officer's excessively tight restraint.

Eric Garner (right) and his children during an outing. Photo: AFP/Uncredited

Daniel Pantaleo's defense attorney stated, "After reviewing the events of the investigation, the jury found no justifiable reason to vote in favor of an indictment." Upon hearing the news, Garner's wife was stunned and couldn't believe her ears. She argued that the video evidence could prove Daniel Pantaleo's actions were completely wrong. Benjamin Carr, the victim's father, declared the Staten Island County jury's decision invalid. Carr stated that "this decision is nothing more than a warrant for the murder of a Black person" and that the American justice system is "completely useless."

Protests began to erupt in Staten Island, where the tragedy occurred. Thousands gathered in Times Square in Manhattan with signs such as “Respect human rights,” “Demand justice for Eric Garner and Michael Brown,” and “Protest against police brutality.” At Grand Central Station, dozens of protesters lay on the ground in silence to express their solidarity with the victims.

Before the jury delivered its verdict on Wednesday, New York Police Chief Bill Bratton stated that he hoped the protests would be peaceful, while emphasizing that the police force was prepared for any eventuality. Bratton affirmed that everyone was free to express their views, but that police would take “strong action” against those who exploited the protests to commit illegal acts.

Following the jury's decision, President Barack Obama said, "When someone is not treated equally under the law, that is an issue that, as president, I will seek to address." On Wednesday evening, the Department of Justice also announced it would launch a federal investigation into civil violations in the case, as requested by the family of victim Eric Garner.

Daniel Pantaleo stated, “I wanted to be a police officer to help people and to protect those who cannot protect themselves. I had no intention of harming anyone, and I am horrified by Eric Garner’s death. My prayers go out to Eric Garner and his family. I hope everyone accepts my condolences.” It is understood that following the tragedy, Pantaleo was stripped of his police badge and his gun to assist with the investigation. The suspension will remain in effect until the results of the internal investigation are available.

Chu Thanh

According to LeMonde, December 3rd