Today is sentencing day for ex-NYPD police officer Peter Liang. Back in February, Liang was convicted of second-degree manslaughter for shooting and killing Akai Gurley. Shortly after the verdict, Liang was let go from his job. While patrolling a housing unit in Brooklyn, Liang fired his gun once, which killed Gurley who happened to be in the staircase at the time.
Update
The verdict is in. Former NYPD officer Peter Liang, will not be seeing prison for the murder of Akai Gurley. He was sentenced to five years probation, which includes six months of house arrest, and 800 hours of community service. Liang’s manslaughter conviction was also lightened by Justice Danny Chun to criminally negligent homicide. Prosecutors claim that they plan to appeal that decision.
Original Story
Liang could be sentenced atleast 15 years for manslaughter. Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson, says that the cop should not have had his finger on the trigger if he was not ready to shoot. He also said, “a prison sentence is not warranted.” He feels as thought Liang should get five years of probation, under the condition of him being put on house arrest and also 500 hours of community service. He believes there is not evidence that Liang intentionally tried to kill Gurley.
“Liang has no prior criminal history and poses no future threat to public safety. Because his incarceration is not necessary to protect the public, and due to the unique circumstances of this case, a prison sentence is not warranted. The sentence that I have requested is just and fair under the circumstances of this case. From the beginning, this tragic case has always been about justice and not about revenge.”
