Roselle police officers? practices are being called into question after a cop shot an unarmed teen Friday.
Roselle police say they were investigating reports of possible drug activity when Marquise Randle, 16, ran away from them. They say Randle was a suspect and did not listen to officers? demands to show his hands. Officer Craig Howlett was trying to apprehend the teen when his gun accidentally discharged, authorities say.
Randle's family, including his mother and uncle who are both Plainfield police officers, is demanding answers. They met with the Union County prosecutor, Roselle's mayor and city council members to get an explanation, but say they aren?t satisfied with what they?ve been told.
Community organizations are demanding stiff penalties for the officer involved and departmental changes. They say there are still too many questions, including whether or not Randle was a suspect in the drug investigation.
The Union County Prosecutor?s Office will continue to investigate. There has been no word of any disciplinary action against officer Howlett.
Randle's family says the teen is at University Hospital in critical but stable condition.