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Former NYPD Sergeant Erik Duran, convicted of manslaughter in the death of Eric Duprey, has been released on bail while appealing his conviction. Duran, 38, was freed on Monday (April 20) after posting $300,000 bail, following a decision by a state appellate court judge. The judge ordered Duran to surrender his passport to his lawyers until his appeal concludes.
Duran was sentenced to three to nine years in prison earlier this month for throwing a cooler at Duprey during a 2023 drug bust in the Bronx. The cooler struck Duprey, causing him to crash his scooter and suffer fatal head injuries. Duran's conviction marks the first time in two decades that an NYPD officer has been sentenced to prison for an on-duty death.
In a statement, Duran expressed gratitude to his family, legal team, and the Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) for their support. He stated, "I now look forward to seeing my family and fighting my appeal with the same determination I demonstrated throughout my career in the NYPD." Duran's statement reflects his hope for a successful appeal.
Duran's release has sparked controversy. Jon Roberts, a lawyer for Duprey’s family, expressed disappointment, emphasizing the family's ongoing grief. Meanwhile, the Sergeants Benevolent Association hailed the release as a victory for law enforcement.
The case has also drawn criticism from groups like Black Lives Matter Greater New York, who argue that the decision undermines justice for Duprey. Duran's lawyers have four months to file their appeal, during which time he remains out on bail.
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