Man Shot by NYPD During Mental Health Call Faces Assault Charges

A Queens man who was killed by law enforcement officers during a mental health-related incident last monthis currently being charged with reportedly moving toward the officers while holding a knife.

His relatives, supporters, and even Mayor Zohran Mamdani oppose the allegations.

A man battles schizophrenia, according to his family.

Law enforcement officials stated that officers arrived at the Jamaica residence of Jabez Chakraborty, 22, on January 26, following a 911 call. His family mentioned that Chakraborty deals with schizophrenia and has never been convicted of any crime.

During the phone call, his mother was heard requesting help to have her son taken to a hospital for medical treatment. As per the NYPD, 911 calls related to involuntary removals always result in a police response.

Following the arrival of police, Chakraborty is said to have taken a knife and repeatedly moved toward the officers.

NYPD police officer video recording captures the encounterAt one moment, Chakraborty was seen holding the knife toward the officers, even passing through a door that the police had locked behind them, before the officers fired four shots.

"Now Jabez is recovering from several surgeries and gunshot wounds, restrained to the hospital bed," said Chakraborty's mother.

Arraigned in the ICU

Chakraborty appeared in court from his hospital bed on Friday. He faces charges of first-degree attempted assault, which is a felony. He was seen crying during the arraignment while still in the ICU.

His lawyer filed a not-guilty plea on his behalf.

The family of Chakraborty was accompanied by lawyers outside the Queens County Criminal Courthouse on Friday.

The involvement of the police somewhat intensified the situation, and the fact that the Queens District Attorney still wants to press charges is ridiculous," said Fahd Ahmed from the group Desis Rising Up and Moving. "What he needed at that time was support and care. He didn't receive it.

"Our family insisted that only she could drop the charge," said Chakraborty's mother.

In a statement, Queens' District Attorney Melinda Katz stated:

According to the allegations, the defendant attempted to assault a police officer while holding a significant knife, disregarded multiple orders to put down the weapon, and then forcefully pushed through a door that the officer was using as a barrier for self-protection. The officer subsequently fired his weapon, striking Jabez Chakraborty four times. As prosecutors, we are obligated to follow the facts, evidence, and situations where they lead us, especially in cases involving mental health. However, these decisions must be made carefully, with consideration and grounded in the knowledge of mental health experts. There are various possible outcomes, and I will utilize the resources available in my office to meet the specific needs of this case while ensuring the safety of this borough.

Mamdani also responded to the allegations, stating the cityneeds to establish a mental health support systemthat is based on prevention and empathy in times of emergency.

Jabez should not face charges from the Queens District Attorney," he stated. "His handcuffs should be taken off, and he should be getting the treatment he requires.

If found guilty, Chakraborty might receive a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.