Seven police officers involved in the restraint of a man who later died will not be charged with any criminal offenses, according to officials. Francis Gigliotti, 43, passed away outside a fish market in a Boston suburb on July 11 after being restrained while walking into traffic. Reports indicate that Gigliotti was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time. Although the officers did not have body cameras, footage from witnesses displayed multiple officers holding Gigliotti face down while he called out for help.

Additional videos obtained from local media showed Gigliotti falling, hitting his head, and wandering into traffic before the fatal incident. Authorities mentioned that Gigliotti was in danger of being hit by passing vehicles several times. The officers were placed on leave during the investigation, which concluded with the decision not to press charges against them.

Essex District Attorney Paul Tucker stated, “After a thorough examination of the facts, relevant laws, and expert opinions, my office has determined that pursuing criminal charges against the officers is not justifiable.” The absence of injuries to Gigliotti’s nose, throat, neck, or back was noted in the autopsy report, with bruises found on his limbs. Tucker explained that the officers initially tried to assist Gigliotti when he was behaving erratically near traffic but resorted to restraining him when he headed towards a seafood restaurant.

Tucker disclosed that Gigliotti was restrained for 2 minutes and 25 seconds before becoming unresponsive. Efforts were made by the officers to revive him using Narcan and CPR before emergency medical services took over. The U.S. Department of Justice has cautioned law enforcement officers about the risks of prone restraint since the mid-1990s due to the potential for asphyxiation.

While placing individuals facedown is not inherently dangerous, experts in policing emphasize the risk of respiratory issues if pressure is applied to the chest for extended periods. They warn that this position could impede breathing and strain the heart, leading to life-threatening consequences.