Islanders Fans Support Jailed Ex-Cop Eric Duran
During Tuesday’s game against the Carolina Hurricanes, Islanders fans came together to support former NYPD Sergeant Eric Duran, who is currently serving time for manslaughter. They donated to a new legal fund aiming to overturn his contentious conviction.
The fundraiser organized by the NYPD Sergeant Benevolent Association was prominently featured on the Jumbotron at Nassau County’s UBS Arena. This event took place nearly a week after Duran was sentenced for throwing a cooler at a drug suspect, who later died, during a chase in August 2023.
“This is all about Eric’s family,” stated Vincent Vallelong, the union president, who was also in attendance alongside other notable figures, including Islanders co-owner John Ledecky and Post official Patrick Judge.
Fans were provided with the chance to contribute directly to the fund through a QR code displayed on the Jumbotron, which had already amassed $40,000 by Tuesday morning. Additionally, a portion of the night’s 50/50 raffle, which raised around $45,000, will help support the legal fund created by the SBA.
Duran, a 38-year-old father of three, received a sentence last Thursday from Bronx District Judge Guy Mitchell. He faced three to nine years in prison for his actions against Eric Duprey, 30, who was evading law enforcement on a moped.
Throughout the three-week trial, Duran defended himself, arguing he threw the cooler to protect the lives of his fellow officers who were in the suspect’s trajectory. However, Judge Mitchell deemed Duran’s use of deadly force unjustified, resulting in a highly debated sentence of second-degree manslaughter.
“I appreciate the Islanders showing support for law enforcement, especially here,” remarked Craig Cashin, a Nassau police officer who joined the 50/50 drawing remotely while at Yankee Stadium. He described Duran’s behavior as an “instinct decision.”
Cashin expressed concern about the implications of Duran’s sentencing, stating, “He didn’t pull a gun and shoot… It’s unfortunate that this judge is giving him a harsh sentence to set an example. Officers are under immense pressure, and this seems unjust.”
Duran, who has a range of potential sentences from probation up to 15 years, is currently being held in protective custody at Rikers Island, awaiting transfer to a state facility.
