Former NYPD Sergeant Granted Bail Amid Manslaughter Appeal

Erik Duran can be released on $300,000 bail while challenging his conviction for the death of a Bronx man.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:51pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or handcuffs lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The bail decision in this case highlights the ongoing tensions around police use of force and accountability.NYC Today

An appeals court judge has granted former New York City police sergeant Erik Duran bail, allowing him to be released as he challenges his manslaughter conviction for the killing of a Bronx man who fled arrest on a motorbike. Duran was sentenced last week to three to nine years in prison for the death of Eric Duprey.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing tensions around police use of force, particularly in incidents involving fleeing suspects. The judge's decision to grant bail during the appeals process raises questions about accountability for officers convicted of crimes while on duty.

The details

Judge Saliann Scarpulla, an appellate judge, ordered that Duran be released on $300,000 bail while he awaits the appeal of his conviction. Duran had opted for a bench trial before Judge Guy H. Mitchell, who convicted him earlier this year and said the sentence would serve as 'a general deterrent' for officers 'violating the law when they are making attempts to apprehend fleeing suspects'.

  • Duran was sentenced last week to three to nine years in prison.
  • Duran's conviction was earlier this year.

The players

Erik Duran

A 38-year-old former New York City police sergeant who was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to three to nine years in prison for the death of Eric Duprey.

Eric Duprey

A Bronx man who was killed by Duran while fleeing arrest on a motorbike.

Judge Saliann Scarpulla

An appellate judge who granted Duran bail while he appeals his manslaughter conviction.

Judge Guy H. Mitchell

The judge who convicted Duran at trial and sentenced him to three to nine years in prison.

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What they’re saying

“The sentence would be 'a general deterrent' for police officers 'violating the law when they are making attempts to apprehend fleeing suspects'.”

— Judge Guy H. Mitchell, Trial Judge

What’s next

The appeals process for Duran's conviction will continue, with a decision on his final sentence expected in the coming months.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing police accountability and public safety, as officers face scrutiny for their use of force even when pursuing suspects. The judge's decision to grant bail during the appeals process suggests the legal system is still grappling with how to properly adjudicate these complex cases.