Overview

• Officer Salvatore Provenzano was found not guilty of third-degree assault for punching a man who was causing disturbances at an Upper West Side Apple Store.
• The incident, which occurred in October 2021, was captured on the officer's body-worn camera.
• Prosecutors had offered Provenzano a plea deal to reduce the charges, which he rejected, opting for a bench trial instead.
• The Police Benevolent Association criticized the case as a misuse of resources and a detriment to police morale.
• Despite the acquittal, the case has raised questions about the prosecution's decision to bring charges and the impact on Provenzano's career.