Two brothers have filed a lawsuit accusing an off-duty NYPD officer of engaging in a violent road rage incident that led to serious injuries. Edwin Rivera and Shawn Rivera filed a verified complaint against the City of New York and Officer Christopher Campos on Nov. 29, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York.
According to the complaint, on Aug. 30, 2023, Edwin and Shawn Rivera were commuting to work when they encountered Officer Campos, who was off duty. The situation escalated when Campos allegedly pursued the brothers aggressively and fired his service weapon, injuring Edwin Rivera.
The brothers claim that Campos did not identify himself as a police officer despite their repeated requests for identification. When NYPD officers arrived at the scene, they were initially unable to confirm Campos' identity as an officer.
The plaintiffs allege that they sustained severe physical and emotional injuries due to Campos' actions. They accuse him of excessive force, assault, battery, and negligence, among other charges.
They also claim their wrongful arrest following the incident led to additional trauma and financial loss. “Defendants’ conduct caused serious physical, emotional, and financial injuries,” the complaint states.
The lawsuit also implicates unnamed NYPD officers (referred to as “NYPD Member Does #1-12”) for failing to intervene or prevent Campos' alleged misconduct. The plaintiffs argue that these officers violated their constitutional rights by allowing the situation to escalate without taking appropriate action.
Edwin and Shawn Rivera are seeking compensatory and punitive damages against Officer Campos. They also demand policy changes within the NYPD to prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, they seek relief under New York State Civil Rights Law and the New York City Administrative Code.
Representing the Riveras is attorney Maryanne K. Kaishian from Kaishian & Mortazavi LLC. Case I.D. 1:24-cv-08284.