Brandon Williams, and another man, supposedly attacked someone on the fifth floor of a building.
When two officers heard the shots, they entered the structure and encountered Williams and his pal running down the stairs. While his companion managed to escape, Williams was detained for about 15 minutes and was eventually fingered as the shooter.
When the Kings County Supreme Court found the arresting officers' conduct improper, and granted relief in Williams's favor, an appeal to the Appellate Division, Second Department, followed.
Because they are allowed to detain a suspect if there is a reasonable belief a crime has been committed, the AD2 thought the cops acted appropriately given that Williams was attempting to exit the building at 3:35 in the AM, shortly after the gunshots were fired, and his friend took flight when confronted by police.
Was no one there for Williams?
To view a copy of the Appellate Division's decision, please use this link: People v. Williams