In a shocking turn of events, a New York City police sergeant has been indicted for his involvement in the death of a man driving a scooter. The incident occurred in August of last year, and Sgt. Erik Duran is now facing charges of manslaughter in the second degree, assault in the first and second degrees, and criminally negligent homicide. If convicted, Duran could potentially face up to 25 years in prison.

The indictment was announced by the New York State Attorney General's Office, who has been investigating the case for several months. According to their findings, Duran was conducting an undercover drug purchase operation in the Bronx when he encountered Eric Duprey, the victim. Duprey attempted to flee arrest on his motorbike, which led to a series of events that ultimately resulted in his death.

Surveillance video of the incident shows Duran grabbing a plastic cooler off a nearby table and throwing it at Duprey, striking him in the head. As a result, Duprey lost control of the vehicle, crashed into a nearby tree, and hit his head on the curb. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Duran's attorney, John D'Alessandro, claims that his client made a split-second decision to prevent serious injury or death to bystanders and police officers. D'Alessandro argues that Duprey was driving the motorbike at a high speed of 40 mph on a crowded sidewalk, putting others in danger. He believes that Duran's actions were necessary to protect the safety of the community.

However, Duprey's wife, Orlyalis Velez, vehemently disagrees and has called for Duran to be imprisoned. She believes that her husband's death was a result of abuse of power and sees no justification for the officer's actions. Velez expressed her frustration, stating, "He's still home, he still sees his family. I don't want him suspended, I want him in jail."

The case has sparked intense debate and emotions, both within the community and among law enforcement officials. Dozens of police officers came to court in support of Duran, while activist groups, the NYPD, and even Mayor Eric Adams have criticized his actions. Mayor Adams, a former police officer himself, stated last year, "We don't throw coolers at fleeing suspects."

The Sergeants' Benevolent Association, the union representing Duran, has not yet responded to requests for comment. However, they have previously defended Duran, claiming that he was trying to protect the public when he threw the cooler.

The indictment of Duran marks a significant step towards justice for Duprey's family. Their attorney, Jonathan Roberts, expressed their satisfaction with the progress made, stating, "The family is encouraged that this is the first step in holding this officer accountable for the senseless and horrible killing of Eric Duprey."

Duran, who has been suspended without pay since the incident, made a not guilty plea at his arraignment in the Bronx. He was able to make bail, which was set at $150,000. The judge also ordered him to surrender his passport. Duran is expected to be back in court on April 18 to face the charges brought against him.

As tensions run high, clashes between supporters of Duprey's family and the police have occurred outside the courthouse. The case has sparked strong emotions within the community, as it coincides with the five-month anniversary of Duprey's death.

The video evidence of the incident has been described as graphic, showing the moments leading up to Duprey's death. Activist groups, such as Black Lives Matter Greater New York, have condemned Duran's actions, questioning the intent behind throwing a 40-pound cooler at someone's head.

While the indictment brings some relief to Duprey's family, they acknowledge that it is only the beginning of their pursuit of justice. They have waited months for this day and believe that it is a crucial step towards holding Duran accountable for his actions.