Did Pantaleo use a chokehold or a different neck hold?

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Pantaleo's Use of Force Under Scrutiny in Disciplinary Trial

The disciplinary trial of Officer Daniel Pantaleo, who was involved in the 2014 death of Eric Garner, has commenced, with the central point of contention being the specific physical maneuver Pantaleo employed. Pantaleo's defense team contends that he did not use a chokehold, as concluded by the official autopsy report, but rather a different technique that they describe as a "neck hold" or "seat belt" maneuver. This distinction is critical, as the New York Police Department has long prohibited the use of chokeholds by its officers.
Defense Argues Against Chokehold Classification

Pantaleo's lawyer, Stuart London, has asserted that the evidence presented will demonstrate the autopsy report's conclusion to be erroneous. London characterized the action taken by Pantaleo as a "seat belt" hold, which he stated inadvertently transitioned into a "neck hold" due to Eric Garner's physical size, weighing approximately 181 kg. The defense's position is that Pantaleo was justified in using physical force to effect the arrest of Garner, who was being apprehended on suspicion of selling loose cigarettes.
Medical Examiner's Office Cites Autopsy Findings

In contrast to the defense's claims, the official autopsy report from the chief medical examiner's office concluded that Eric Garner died, in part, due to a chokehold that compressed his neck. A doctor from the medical examiner's office is expected to provide testimony during the trial, detailing findings of hemorrhaging and trauma to the muscles in Garner's neck. This testimony is anticipated to be supported by approximately two dozen autopsy photographs illustrating the injuries sustained.
Civilian Complaint Review Board's Determination

The city's Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) had previously determined in 2017 that Officer Pantaleo used excessive force in the incident. The CCRB is responsible for prosecuting certain violations of police rules, and its findings contribute to the ongoing scrutiny of Pantaleo's conduct. The phrase "I can't breathe," uttered by Garner multiple times before his death, has become a significant element in the case and a rallying cry in discussions about police brutality.

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Did Pantaleo use a chokehold or a different neck hold?

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