New York City's Department of Investigation has launched an investigation into deaths in NYPD custody — information that emerged during a City Council hearing on Monday, where lawmakers pressed police officials about what they called an "alarming string” of deaths.

A DOI spokesperson confirmed the investigation, but said it’s too early to describe the scope.

So far this year, nine people have died in NYPD custody, according to the department. At least four had been arrested for low-level offenses, a growing trend. Police reported 25 such deaths last year and 18 in 2023.

Police have not disclosed the names or charges for all of those who died. But the state attorney general's office has released two additional names: Pedro Valle, who died July 16 in Queens, and Ramon Diaz, who died Feb.

See Full Page