NYCLU Statement on Fatal Law Enforcement Shooting of Two Syracuse Teenagers

SYRACUSE – In response to footage released today of a member of the Onondaga County Sheriff’s office killing two Black teenagers last week, the New York Civil Liberties Union issued the following statement from assistant field director Deka Dancil:

“The Onondaga County Sheriff’s killing of Dhal Pothwi Apet and Lueth Mo is as tragic as it is troubling. These two teenagers should still be alive. It is clear from the footage that the officer needlessly escalated to fatal force, and did so with a rapidity that is too readily deployed against young Black New Yorkers. As community members channel their grief into action and rally to demand justice, we call on city officials to respect their right to protest. 

“We welcome the Attorney General’s investigation, which must include reviewing the Onondaga County Sheriff’s office’s excessive force and minors’ policies, revealing all body-worn camera footage, investigating the failure to record portions of the interaction, and holding officers accountable for wrongdoing. Members of the Syracuse community have a right to know the misconduct history of the officers present, and what other reckless behavior these officers have carried out whether on camera or not.”