Michael Velez, alleged getaway driver, found not guilty in death of NYPD officer Peter Figoski

By: Crimesider Staff
Topics: Daily Blotter

NYPD officer Peter Figoski was shot and killed in the line of duty on Dec. 12, 2011.

/ NYPD

(CBS/AP) NEW YORK - A jury has found Michael Velez, the alleged getaway driver in a botched robbery-slaying of New York City police officer Peter Figoski, not guilty on all counts.

Velez was accused of acting as the getaway driver the night of the slaying on Dec. 12, 2011, and faced second degree murder and burglary charges. He was facing 25 years to life in prison.

Velez testified in his own defense and said he thought he was just giving the other men a ride.

Lamont Pride, the man accused of killing Figoski, was acquitted Monday of intentionally murdering the officer. However, he was found guilty of lesser charges of second-degree murder, burglary and aggravated manslaughter.

Prosecutors said Pride and four others plotted to rob a drug dealer who lived in a basement apartment in Brooklyn, but were interrupted by police.

As Pride tried to escape, he came face-to-face with Figoski, who was shot once in the head. Figoski died later at a hospital. Prosecutors said Figoski, who was undercover, never even drew his own weapon. Pride's defense claimed the shooting was an accident.

Figoski is survived by daughters Christine, Caitlyn, Caroline and Corrine. More than $600,000 was raised for a scholarship fund to help pay for their education.

Complete coverage of Peter Figoski on Crimesider

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