This article is more than 6 years old

This article is more than 6 years old

The head of a New York City police union said on Saturday officers should not be held responsible for the death of a drugged-out man in custody.

The New York Police Department is being investigated following the 13 July death of Ronald Singleton. The 45-year-old was high on PCP when officers attempting to hospitalise him restrained him.

The medical examiner’s office says the restraint led to his death.



The NYPD is also being investigated over the chokehold death of Eric Garner on Staten Island, four days after Singleton died. Garner, 43, was being arrested for selling untaxed, loose cigarettes when he was placed in the chokehold.

Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association President Patrick Lynch said on Saturday drugs placed the user’s life in jeopardy – not police.

Lynch said officers were trained to follow protocols that ensure the safety of those being arrested.

