The NYPD released body-worn camera footage from a shooting at a Brooklyn subway station where police officers confronted a fare-beater who charged at them with a knife. The suspect, Derrell Mickles, was shot several times, as were two bystanders. One bystander, Gregory Delpeche, was critically injured and underwent surgery. Mickles faced charges including attempted aggravated assault on a police officer and weapons possession. His lawyer argued that disproportionate force was used by the police. Surveillance video showed Mickles with a knife, and body camera footage captured the confrontation escalating. Mickles was shot multiple times by the officers, resulting in his fall onto a train. The footage showed Mickles displaying the knife but not attacking officers. The NYPD defended the officers’ actions, stating they fired in self-defense after attempts to deescalate the situation and the use of Tasers had failed. Police reform advocates condemned the shooting, arguing that it highlighted the need for reform and alternatives to policing. Mayor Eric Adams defended the officers’ actions, stating they followed proper protocol. The incident sparked a protest, and nearly 20 people were arrested. Family members of the injured bystander and elected officials criticized the NYPD for its handling of the situation, calling the officers’ actions reckless and dangerous. Mayor Adams refrained from further comment, pending a formal review of the shooting.
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