Bangladeshi-American Youth Shot by NYPD, Family Demands Justice

A Bangladeshi-American mother in Queens is demanding justice for her mentally ill son, who was seriously injured after being shot by New York Police Department (NYPD) officers. The incident took place at the family’s home on Parsons Boulevard in Briarwood. The young man, 22-year-old Jabez Chakraborty, suffers from schizophrenia.

Jabez’s mother, Julie Chakraborty, said tearfully, “Jabez was safe in our home until the police arrived. Now, after multiple surgeries, he remains handcuffed to a hospital bed.”

According to authorities, the incident occurred on January 26 after a 911 call for assistance. Police body camera footage reportedly shows Jabez holding a large kitchen knife and approaching officers. Prosecutors stated that he ignored repeated commands to drop the knife, leading officers to fire four shots.

Family members and their representative, Fahad Ahmed of Desis Rising Up and Moving, condemned the shooting. “Jabez and our family need proper health and mental health services, not punishment,” Ahmed said.

Jabez is currently hospitalized and appeared virtually at a hearing on Friday, where he was charged with assaulting officers and possessing a weapon. His family has called on Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz to drop the charges, arguing that Jabez should receive medical care rather than face prosecution.

District Attorney Katz defended the decision to file charges, stating, “The behavior in this case was serious, and my office has responded appropriately.” Meanwhile, New York Mayor opposed prosecuting Jabez, but Police Bureau Association President Patrick Hendry expressed support for the officers’ actions, citing the immediate danger posed by the knife.

Jabez has pleaded not guilty. He was released on $50,000 cash bail and is scheduled to appear in court again on March 11.