The New York City Police Department released body camera footage detailing a harrowing encounter that left a 22-year-old man critically injured. The incident, unfolding in a Queens home on January 26th, has ignited a debate about the appropriate response to individuals experiencing mental health crises.
Jabez Chakraborty, reportedly battling schizophrenia, was inside his home when his family called for help. The initial 911 call, released with the footage, reveals a desperate plea for an ambulance – a request for mental health support, not a police intervention. The caller expressed concern over Chakraborty’s erratic behavior, including throwing a glass against the wall.
Upon arrival, officers encountered Chakraborty wielding a large kitchen knife. The body camera footage shows officers immediately attempting to de-escalate the situation, repeatedly commanding him to drop the weapon. Despite their efforts, Chakraborty continued to advance towards them.
A woman, believed to be a family member, attempted to intervene, physically trying to block Chakraborty’s path. However, he pushed past her, continuing his forward momentum with the knife still in hand. The officer strategically retreated, attempting to create distance by closing a door between himself and Chakraborty.
The footage then shows Chakraborty forcing his way through the door and again advancing toward the officer with the knife. In a split-second decision, the officer discharged his weapon, striking Chakraborty four times. He was immediately transported to a hospital and remains in intensive care, his condition listed as stable but critical.
The incident has drawn strong reactions from city officials. Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly stated that Chakraborty needs mental health treatment, not criminal prosecution. He emphasized the need for alternative response systems for individuals in mental health distress, arguing that police intervention shouldn’t always be the first or only option.
Chakraborty’s family has vehemently criticized the police response, claiming it escalated the situation unnecessarily. They allege that within minutes of the officers’ arrival, their son was shot while calmly eating, and are calling for the charges against him to be dropped.
The family is advocating for a shift in how the city responds to mental health emergencies, urging the mayor to establish systems that prioritize trained mental health professionals over armed police officers for these types of calls. They also expressed feeling re-traumatized by the aftermath of the shooting.
The Police Benevolent Association defended the officers’ actions, stating they were confronted with a rapidly evolving and dangerous situation. They argued that the officers acted professionally and with restraint, forced to respond to an immediate threat to their safety.
The Queens District Attorney’s office is currently investigating the incident, with preliminary reports suggesting a potential indictment for attempted murder is being considered. The investigation will undoubtedly scrutinize the officers’ actions and the circumstances leading up to the shooting.
This case has reignited a crucial conversation about the intersection of mental health, law enforcement, and the urgent need for more effective and compassionate responses to individuals in crisis. It underscores the complexities faced by both officers and those struggling with mental illness.
