Associated Press

NEW YORK — New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and Police Commissioner William Bratton are opposing a measure that would make police chokeholds a crime.

The proposed legislation making chokeholds a misdemeanor offense was introduced Thursday by Councilman Rory Lancman in response to the July death of Eric Garner, who was being restrained by police.

The legislation faces an uphill battle without the mayor's support.

De Blasio says the matter should be covered by department policies. Bratton says those policies are sufficient.

A chokehold is against NYPD policy but not a crime.

The medical examiner ruled that Garner's death was a homicide caused by neck compression, chest compression and his prone position while being restrained.

A grand jury is hearing evidence in the case.

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