Boston — The family of Stephenson King Jr., a 39-year-old Black man fatally shot by a police officer, is calling for the immediate release of body camera footage as legal proceedings intensify against the officer involved.
During a press conference on Thursday, civil rights attorney Ben Crump joined the victim’s family in urging transparency, stating that the footage is essential for revealing the truth behind the March 11 incident.
King’s father, Stephenson King Sr., a retired law enforcement officer, described himself as “broken-hearted,” noting that his son had struggled with mental health issues.
“That police officer on the side of that street was the judge, the jury and the executioner,” Crump said, emphasizing the family’s demand for accountability.
Officer Charged, Pleads Not Guilty
Former Boston police officer Nicholas O’Malley has been charged with voluntary manslaughter after allegedly firing three shots at King. He pleaded not guilty during his arraignment on March 19.
According to Kevin Hayden, King was initially pursued by police as a suspect in an unarmed carjacking. Authorities say he refused commands to exit his vehicle and attempted to drive away.
Hayden stated that O’Malley fired into the driver’s side of the car, striking King three times. He emphasized that firing at a moving vehicle is generally prohibited under Massachusetts law and Boston Police Department procedures unless under exceptional circumstances — conditions he said were not met in this case.
Investigators further noted that King did not attempt to drive toward officers, and neither officer was in the vehicle’s path at the time of the shooting.
Calls for Transparency vs. Ongoing Investigation
Despite mounting public pressure, the District Attorney’s office has declined to release body camera footage, citing concerns that doing so could compromise the ongoing investigation and potential prosecution.
“Neither my office nor the Boston Police Department will be releasing any further evidence… including body worn camera footage,” Hayden said, reaffirming the decision.
Officials confirmed that investigators have reviewed the footage internally, but there are currently no plans to make it public.
Union and Police Response
The New England Police Benevolent Association expressed support for O’Malley, highlighting the difficult and high-pressure nature of police work.
In a statement, the union said officers are often forced to make split-second decisions in rapidly evolving and dangerous situations, where hesitation could result in loss of life.
Meanwhile, Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox said the department remains committed to building trust within the community, while refraining from commenting on the specifics of the case as it proceeds through the legal system.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
The case is currently under investigation by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office and the Boston Police Department. It is expected to be presented before a grand jury, with a probable cause hearing scheduled for May 21.
As the legal process unfolds, the victim’s family continues to push for greater transparency, arguing that the release of body camera footage is critical for accountability and public trust.
