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Friday, March 29, 2024 | Back issues
Courthouse News Service Courthouse News Service

Court Upholds Firing of Officer Who Shot Tires

NEW YORK (CN) - A deputy sheriff was rightfully fired for shooting his weapon at a car whose driver was trying to escape, the New York Appellate Division ruled.

Deputy Jeffrey R. Clarke crashed his car into a wall while joining fellow officers in a 100-mph pursuit of a suspect in Warren County, N.Y.

Clarke was unable to pursue the suspect up the hill, but he set his damaged car as a roadblock, and the suspect drove down the hill toward him. Clarke aimed his gun at the driver's head, prompting the driver to swerve out of the way.

"The evidence shows that although the vehicle had passed and no longer posed an imminent threat to his safety, (Clarke) attempted to stop the vehicle by firing 14 rounds at its tires," Judge Malone wrote.

Malone agreed with the findings of the hearing officer, who said Clarke used poor judgment and demonstrated "a disregard for the life and safety of others."

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