The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has launched an inquiry into the death of Bernie Russo, who passed away on July 1, 2025, following an interaction with New York State Police (NYSP) troopers in Norfolk, St. Lawrence County.
On the morning of July 1, state troopers responded to a reported domestic incident at a residence in Norfolk. Upon arrival, they encountered Mr. Russo emerging from an RV on the property. The troopers attempted to restrain Mr. Russo by placing him in handcuffs and leg restraints. During this encounter, Mr. Russo became unresponsive. Life-saving measures were initiated by the troopers while waiting for an ambulance, but Mr. Russo was pronounced dead at the scene.
Under New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI evaluates every incident reported where a police officer or peace officer may have caused a person’s death through action or omission. This includes both on-duty and off-duty officers and situations where the deceased was armed or unarmed, as well as whether they were in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment suggests that an officer may have been responsible for the death, a full investigation is conducted.
The facts presented are preliminary and may change.
