Statement from Deputy Commissioner Public Information Phillip Walzak

August 2, 2019

"The Police Commissioner is aware of media reports and public statements today regarding the Pantaleo trial. Consistent with the NYPD disciplinary process, the Police Commissioner has not been provided the draft report.  It has been shared with the CCRB and the defense, for a standard period of final comment from each.  The Deputy Commissioner of Trials will then deliver the completed report, with those comments, to the Police Commissioner for final disposition - to be determined this month.  Officer Pantaleo has been suspended, effective today, as is the longstanding practice in these matters when the recommendation is termination.


"All of New York City understandably seeks closure to this difficult chapter in our City's history.  Premature statements or judgments before the process is complete however cannot and will not be made.  In order to protect the integrity of the trial proceedings and conclusion, the NYPD will not comment further until the Police Commissioner makes the final determination."