New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has concluded that criminal charges will not be filed in connection with the fatal police shooting of Akintunde Campbell in Rochester last summer.
In a report released at the end of last week, OSI determined that prosecutors would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officers’ use of deadly force was justified under New York law.
Campbell died on July 31, 2025, following an encounter with members of the Rochester Police Department on Ernestine Street.
According to the report, officers were dispatched to the area at approximately 7:35 p.m. after receiving 911 calls about a man looking into and possibly entering vehicles. When officers arrived, they encountered Campbell, who matched the description provided by callers, standing in a driveway.
Police said Campbell told officers he was waiting for a friend before attempting to walk away. Officers then observed what they believed to be a weapon in the front pocket of his hoodie and attempted to detain him.
A struggle followed, during which Campbell broke free and continued to walk away while keeping his hand in his pocket, according to investigators. Officers drew their weapons and repeatedly asked what was in his pocket.
Authorities say Campbell then removed a handgun and held it with both hands while facing officers. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, he did not comply. Officers then fired their service weapons, striking Campbell. He was pronounced dead at the scene. A handgun was recovered nearby.
Under New York law, police are permitted to use deadly physical force if they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend against the use of deadly force. Based on the evidence reviewed—including 911 calls, body-worn camera footage, witness interviews, and forensic analysis—OSI concluded that standard was met.
As a result, the agency determined that criminal charges would not be pursued in the case.
