Gubernatorial candidate vows to pardon cop convicted of manslaughter in death of fleeing suspect Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman announced he will pardon former NYPD Sergeant Erik Duran, who was convicted of manslaughter for the death of a fleeing suspect. Duran threw a cooler at the suspect, Eric Duprey, causing him to crash his scooter and die. Blakeman stated the sentence was a “travesty of justice” and that Duran did not intend lethal force.

• Republican candidate Bruce Blakeman vows to pardon NYPD Sergeant Erik Duran.
• Duran was convicted of manslaughter in the 2023 death of Eric Duprey.
• Duran threw a cooler at Duprey, who was fleeing arrest on a scooter, causing him to crash and die.
• Blakeman called the conviction a “travesty of justice” and promised a pardon on January 1, 2027.
• Prosecutors had sought a longer sentence, while the defense argued Duran did not intend lethal force.
• The judge stated the sentence would serve as a “general deterrent” for other officers.
• Duran was fired by the NYPD after his conviction and is expected to appeal.
• The Sergeant’s Benevolent Association president criticized the sentence as a “dark day” for law enforcement.