Orange officer faces decertification for firing at fleeing car

Officer Eric Ristaino shot at the driver's head outside a Burlington Coat Factory, but no one was injured.

News 12 Staff

Oct 22, 2024, 10:11 AM

Updated 65 days ago

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An Orange police officer who fired at a fleeing car carrying a shoplifting suspect last September may lose his certification.
Officer Eric Ristaino shot at the driver's head outside a Burlington Coat Factory, but no one was injured.
Ristaino was trying to stop the car, which was dragging another officer at the time.
The state Inspector General's office has recommended decertifying Ristaino, citing unnecessary use of deadly force.
However, prosecutors will not charge Ristaino due to a "low probability of conviction."
The incident has sparked debate over police protocols and accountability.