Attorney General James Releases Footage from Investigation into Death of Bernie Russo

NEW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James today released body-worn camera footage that her office obtained as part of its ongoing investigation into the death of Bernie Russo, who died on July 1, 2025 following an encounter with New York State Police (NYSP) troopers in Norfolk, St. Lawrence County.

The Office of Special Investigation (OSI) of the Attorney General’s Office released footage from body-worn cameras that troopers were equipped with during the incident. The release of this footage follows Attorney General James’ directive that camera footage obtained by her office during an OSI investigation be released to the public to increase transparency and strengthen public trust in these matters.

In the early morning hours of July 1, state troopers arrived at a house in Norfolk in response to a reported domestic incident. When troopers arrived on the scene, they encountered Mr. Russo, who came out of an RV on the property. Troopers attempted to restrain Mr. Russo, placing him in handcuffs and leg restraints. During the encounter, Mr. Russo became unresponsive. Troopers initiated life-saving measures while waiting for the ambulance. Mr. Russo was pronounced dead at the scene.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections 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. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

The release of this footage is not an expression of any opinion as to the guilt or innocence of any party in a criminal matter or any opinion as to how or whether any individual may be charged with a crime. 

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