Newly released body camera footage from March 23, 2020, shows Rochester Police Department officers responding to a mental health call in which they restrained a Black resident named Daniel Prude, covered his head, and knelt on his body before he stopped breathing. Prude was pronounced brain dead by hospital staff upon arrival 15 minutes later. The Monroe County medical examiner ruled Prude’s death a homicide, citing complications of asphyxia.

Dr. Seanelle Hawkins, President and CEO of the Urban League of Rochester, issued the following statement in response:
 

“We are deeply saddened by the horrific death of Daniel Prude. We first and foremost wish to offer our sincerest condolences to Daniel’s family and friends. The video footage of the restraining of Daniel and the covering of his head is traumatizing for us and the Black community, immediately recalling images of lynching victims. 

Over the last five months, there have been more calls for police accountability. The State has made positive efforts with its police reform and Governor Cuomo’s most recent executive order. But the video footage of this incident and others like it challenges our trust and confidence in law enforcement, particularly when we learn of such incidents months later.

Obviously there is still work to be done in the area of police reform. Our community is tired of talk, and we demand action. While we support Mayor Warren’s decision to suspend all of the police officers involved—Officers Mark Vaughn, Troy Talladay, Paul Ricotta, Francisco Santiago, Andrew Specksgoor, Josiah Harris, and Sgt. Mark Magri—as a necessary first step, it is not enough:

The Urban League of Rochester demands urgency in the full and independent investigation of Prude’s death and expect that the results will lead to transparency, accountability, and systemic changes that provide for and protect the safety of all citizens.”  

Questions and press inquiries may be directed to William Rivera-Bloodworth, Digital Engagement Officer, at wrivera@ulr.org.