The NYPD officer who was indicted yesterday for killing an unarmed man in Brooklyn last fall has pleaded not guilty, authorities say.
According to the Associated Press, Officer Peter Liang made a brief appearance inside of a Brooklyn courtroom today. Liang entered a plea of not guilty to charges of manslaughter, assault, and criminally negligent homicide for shooting 28-year-old Akai Gurley inside of a stairwell in the Pink Houses on Nov. 20.
Liang and his partner were conducting a sweep when Gurley entered the stairwell. Liang reportedly discharged his service weapon by accident, striking Gurley in the chest.
Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson maintained that evidence in the case would be presented to a grand jury, and it was revealed yesterday that the grand jury began hearing evidence a week ago.
The Associated Press adds that Liang was released without bail.
[via Associated Press]
