Officers Cleared in Man's In-Custody Death

Seven police officers involved in the restraint of Francis Gigliotti, 43, who later died, will not face criminal charges. Essex District Attorney Paul Tucker announced the decision Tuesday, citing a comprehensive review of facts and expert opinions that found no support for criminal charges.

Gigliotti died on July 11 outside a Haverhill fish market after entering traffic during what his fiancee described as a mental health crisis. While officers were not wearing body cameras, witness videos showed Gigliotti being held face down. The district attorney stated Gigliotti was held for 2 minutes and 25 seconds.

An autopsy determined Gigliotti's death was caused by cardiac dysrhythmia, complicated by acute intoxication from cocaine and ethanol, while being restrained prone by police. The autopsy notably found no injuries to his nose, throat, neck, or back, only bruises on his arms and legs.

Authorities reported that officers initially attempted to help Gigliotti when they found him exhibiting erratic behavior in traffic. Restraint began only when he attempted to enter a restaurant. Once unresponsive, officers administered Narcan, initiated CPR, and EMS took over. The U.S. Department of Justice has previously warned about the dangers of prone restraint.