Search results for: “label/Sean Bell”

  • Officer who shot first at Sean Bell is fired

    The departmental wheels of justice turn very slowly, but they do indeed turn. It’s been six years since Sean Bell was killed. Leaving aside the merits of the case against the officers (If I remember correctly, I think my position was that the officers indeed were not criminally guilty, except maybethe officer who fired first), note that Ray Kelly didn’t have to do this. It’s not like this is still much in the public’s eye. It’s not like he’ll gain politically from this (unless, however, he runs for mayor). Maybe he just thought it was the right thing to do.

    From the New York Times:

    Law enforcement officials said word of Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly’s decision came late Friday. Detective Isnora, an 11-year veteran, will not collect a pension, one official said. “He loses everything,” the official said.

  • Sean Bell officers won’t face federal charges

    Nor should they.

    The story from the New York Times.

    You can read everything I’ve written about Sean Bell. This post is probably the best, if you just want one.

    Also, on principle, I’m against recharging people at the federal level. Smacks of double jeopardy to me. The Fifth Amendment is pretty explicit: “[No person shall] be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb.” That’s what trying somebody at the federal level is. One crime. One trial. Here’s to the Bill of Rights!

    Too bad the Supreme Court begs to differ.