Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Announces Indictment and Arraignment of State Trooper on Manslaughter Charges

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) today announced the indictment and arraignment of New York State Trooper Anthony Nigro IV on charges of Manslaughter in the First and Second Degrees. The indictment alleges Trooper Nigro shot and killed James Huber in Buffalo, Erie County on February 12, 2022.

Trooper Nigro was arraigned today in Erie County Supreme Court before Justice M. William Boller, where he pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance. Manslaughter in the First Degree is a Class B violent felony and carries a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison and five years of supervised release.

On the morning of February 12, 2022, members of the New York State Police (NYSP) were pursuing Mr. Huber, who was speeding and driving erratically on Interstate 90 near Buffalo. The NYSP called off the chase when Mr. Huber exited the highway. A short time later, Mr. Huber stopped his car near the intersection of Washington Street and East Eagle Street in Buffalo. Trooper Nigro approached the car, and during an interaction with Mr. Huber, fired his service weapon and shot Mr. Huber, who was unarmed. Mr. Huber was pronounced dead at the scene.

Pursuant to New York Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer may have caused the death of a person, by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

The OAG would like to thank Acting Superintendent Steven Nigrelli and NYSP for their cooperation and partnership.

Criminal charges are accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until found guilty at trial or by plea.