A state grand jury voted not to file any criminal charges in connection with the fatal police-involved shooting of Thelonious McKnight, 25, of Paterson, New Jersey, on December 29, 2021.
The grand jury’s decision followed a comprehensive investigation conducted by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA), adhering to the Independent Prosecutor Directive of 2019.
The investigation, spanning witness interviews, autopsy results, and video footage analysis, was presented to the grand jury following procedures aimed at ensuring neutrality and transparency during grand jury presentations.
McKnight’s death was a result of a police-involved shooting that occurred after a Paterson police detective observed suspicious activity on CCTV surveillance cameras.
The grand jury heard testimony regarding the events leading up to the incident, which involved McKnight and another individual carrying what appeared to be handguns.
Detectives apprehended the other individual but were unable to locate McKnight at that time.
Later that evening, McKnight was spotted again, leading to an encounter with law enforcement.
The situation escalated when McKnight, despite repeated orders, failed to comply with law enforcement’s instructions, leading to a confrontation during which Detective Mohammed Bashir shot and fatally wounded McKnight.
The grand jury deliberated on the evidence, including video footage of the incident, and concluded its proceedings on December 11, 2023, with a “no bill” decision, signifying that they found no grounds for filing criminal charges against Detective Bashir.
According to the investigation, McKnight was armed and allegedly pointed a firearm at a detective, prompting Detective Bashir to use lethal force in self-defense. The subsequent exchange of gunfire resulted in McKnight’s tragic death.
The investigation included a thorough examination of ballistics evidence, video footage from various sources, and witness statements. The 9mm handgun recovered near McKnight was determined to have been fired by him, corroborating detectives’ accounts of the events.
The Office of Public Integrity and Accountability will now refer the officers involved to the appropriate law enforcement agency for administrative review, adhering to the protocols outlined in the Attorney General’s Internal Affairs Policy & Procedures.
This decision marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice in cases of police-involved shootings, reflecting the state’s commitment to a fair and thorough investigative process.
For recordings and additional information related to the shooting, the public can access the recordings online.
For further details on the Independent Prosecutor Directive and OPIA’s standard operating procedures, visit the Attorney General’s website.
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