Full Breakdown
Queens Man Charged After Police Shooting Amid Mental Health Crisis
2/17/2026, 5:52:09 AM
Incident Overview
On January 26, 2026, Jabez Chakraborty, a 22-year-old man from Briarwood, Queens, was shot by police officers responding to a 911 call made by his family. The call was intended to seek medical assistance for Chakraborty, who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. During the encounter, Chakraborty allegedly approached the officers with a kitchen knife, leading to the police shooting him multiple times. Following the incident, Chakraborty was charged with first-degree attempted assault and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon.
Background & Context
Chakraborty's family contends that they called 911 for involuntary medical assistance, not for law enforcement intervention. His mother, Julie Chakraborty, expressed that they sought help for her son’s mental health crisis, emphasizing that they did not expect a police response that would escalate into violence. The incident has reignited discussions about how New York City handles mental health emergencies, particularly the role of police in such situations.
Key Figures & Responses
Mayor Zohran Mamdani has publicly opposed the prosecution of Chakraborty, stating that he should receive mental health care instead of facing criminal charges. He has called for the removal of Chakraborty’s handcuffs, advocating for a compassionate approach to mental health crises. Mamdani criticized the current system, asserting that it must prioritize prevention and crisis care.
In contrast, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has defended the decision to prosecute, stating that the evidence indicates Chakraborty attempted to attack an officer while armed. Katz emphasized the need for a thoughtful approach to cases involving mental health, balancing public safety with the unique needs of individuals in crisis.
Criticism & Opposition
Advocates and family members have expressed strong opposition to the charges against Chakraborty. Fahd Ahmed, a representative from the organization Desis Rising Up and Moving, argued that the police presence escalated the situation and that Chakraborty required support rather than prosecution. His family has requested that the charges be dropped, asserting that the legal actions taken against him are unjust given his mental health struggles.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the police maintain that body camera footage shows Chakraborty advancing toward officers with a knife, his family disputes this narrative, claiming that the situation was mishandled. The differing accounts highlight the complexities surrounding police interactions with individuals experiencing mental health crises.
What's Next
Chakraborty faces a potential sentence of up to 15 years in prison if convicted. The case will continue to unfold as it raises critical questions about the intersection of law enforcement and mental health care in New York City. The ongoing discourse may influence future policies regarding police responses to mental health emergencies.
Verbatim Quotes
“Jabez should not be prosecuted by the Queens District Attorney," he said.” — Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of Queens
“Locking him up will destroy his life. All we want is for him to be able to heal.” — Julie Chakraborty, Mother of Jabez Chakraborty
“Moments like this lay bare what so many New Yorkers already know. Our city must build a mental health response that is rooted in prevention and compassion and crisis care,” — Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of Queens
