The Office of the New York Attorney General Letitia James has concluded its investigation into the fatal shooting of Gary Worthy by a New York Police Department officer, determining that criminal charges will not be pursued. The report, detailing the events of November 19, 2024, was made public by the Office of Special Investigation, as reported by the Attorney General's office.
Officers responded to a robbery report at a smoke shop on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard in Queens, whereafter a 911 caller identified Mr. Worthy, as the alleged perpetrator. The situation escalated when Mr. Worthy reportedly fired a gun, hitting an officer who then returned fire, ultimately leading to Worthy's death at a local hospital. According to the Attorney General's office, the investigation included "review of footage from body-worn cameras and security cameras, interviews with involved officers and witnesses, and comprehensive legal analysis."
The legal standard in New York justifies an officer's use of deadly force if they reasonably believe it necessary to defend against another's deadly force. The AG's Office stated, "Under these circumstances, given the law and the evidence, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officer’s use of deadly physical force against Mr. Worthy was justified." A firearm was recovered at the scene by officers.
In a departure from the central findings about the use of force, the Office of Special Investigation also pointed out that officers did not render aid to Worthy in the aftermath of the shooting. The OSI recommended that the NYPD, and all police agencies, highlight in their training the provision of aid to individuals hurt as a result of police force. The Attorney General's office emphasized that officers are required to "obtain medical attention for any person injured as soon as reasonably possible," and "render reasonable aid to injured person(s) and/or request an ambulance or doctor to the location as necessary."
