Paterson promises probe into Sean Bell shooting

In a meeting with Rev. Al Sharpton Thursday, Gov. David Paterson promised to follow up on the Sean Bell case. Paterson told Sharpton and Bell?s family there will be an examination of procedures of undercover

News 12 Staff

May 9, 2008, 3:05 AM

Updated 6,010 days ago

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In a meeting with Rev. Al Sharpton Thursday, Gov. David Paterson promised to follow up on the Sean Bell case.
Paterson told Sharpton and Bell?s family there will be an examination of procedures of undercover law enforcement. Bell was killed by three undercover officers in November 2006 as he and two friends left a strip club. The officers were cleared of all charges at the end of April. Thursday?s meeting came a day after the reverend and hundreds of protesters took to the streets in protest of the officers? acquittal. Sharpton and the protesters stationed themselves at six Manhattan locations Wednesday in an effort to halt traffic and shut down New York City. During the protests, Sharpton called for a further investigation into shooting.
Paterson promised to ?take a look at legislation involving the alcohol testing of police officers after their weapons have been discharged.? The police officers were drinking to help disguise their status, and some believe the alcohol may have affected their judgment.
The governor said a federal investigation into the shooting is under way. Sharpton says Wednesday?s protests are just an example of what?s to come.