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Two NYPD narcotics detectives have been placed on modified duty following a violent incident at a liquor store in Brooklyn on Tuesday. The detectives were caught on camera kicking, punching, and dragging a man, identified as 46-year-old Timothy Brown, through broken glass at BK Wine Depot on Hoyt Street in Cobble Hill. The video quickly went viral, leading to widespread public outcry.
The NYPD's Internal Affairs Bureau is currently investigating the incident. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch described the footage as "deeply disturbing" and confirmed that the detectives have been ordered to surrender their guns and shields. According to the NYPD, the detectives were undercover, responding to complaints about drug sales in the area. They mistakenly identified Brown as an associate of a drug dealer they were pursuing, due to his attire—a white shirt and teal shorts—which matched the description of the suspect's partner.
Brown, who was not involved in the drug sale, was initially charged with resisting arrest, but the charges were later dropped by the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office. Brown expressed his relief at surviving the ordeal, stating, "I just thank God that I’m alive." He is seeking justice for the incident, which left him with injuries including a black eye and cuts.
The incident drew criticism from community leaders and public figures, including Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who condemned the officers' actions as "extremely disturbing and unacceptable." Black Lives Matter Greater New York co-founder Chivona Newsome called the incident "traumatic" for Brown.
In response to the backlash, the Detectives Endowment Association and Police Benevolent Association defended the detectives, urging the public to wait for all the facts before making judgments. DEA President Scott Munro emphasized the dangers faced by narcotics detectives and criticized the mayor for his quick condemnation.
As the investigation continues, the community and city officials are closely watching for further developments.
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