An NYPD officer who shot and killed an unarmed ex-con during a traffic stop in 2019 has been cleared of any wrongdoing by the department’s Commissioner Jessica Tisch. The decision comes after an internal review of the case, as well as a separate analysis conducted by the State Attorney General’s office.
The officer in question, Lt. Jonathan Rivera, was found to be justified in his actions as he was believed to be protecting the life of his fellow officer, Edward Barrett. The incident took place when Rivera, Barrett, and Officer Michelle Almanzar pulled over Allan Feliz in his vehicle on Bainbridge Avenue. Initially stopped for a perceived seatbelt violation, the situation escalated when Feliz was found to have an open warrant.
A struggle ensued when Feliz attempted to get back into his car, which led the officers to believe he was attempting to flee. Despite attempts to restrain him using a stun gun, Rivera ultimately fired a fatal shot, killing Feliz, who was a father to a young child.
The Attorney General’s report supported Rivera’s actions, stating that he had a reasonable belief that his fellow officer was in danger, justifying the use of lethal force. This decision by Commissioner Tisch was commended by the Lieutenant’s Benevolent Association, emphasizing the support for officers acting in good faith.
Following Feliz’s death, his family filed a $350 million lawsuit against the city and the NYPD, alleging racial profiling and excessive use of force. They claimed that Feliz was not attempting to drive away, but rather the movement of the car was accidental.
The family expressed their pain and trauma over the incident, with Feliz’s sister Ashley Verdeja highlighting the emotional toll of seeing the officer involved still carrying a weapon. The ongoing legal battle and emotional impact on Feliz’s family continue to be a point of contention in the case.
Overall, the decision to clear Lt. Jonathan Rivera of wrongdoing in the shooting of Allan Feliz has sparked debate and highlighted the complexities of police use of force incidents. The case serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers and the impact of such incidents on the community.
