Slain Pace Student's Parents Visit DA in White Plains

The parents of a college football player shot to death by police had a meeting Monday with the Westchester district attorney coordinating the investigation -- but still want federal prosecutors to take over.

Danroy and Angella Henry, of Easton, Mass., visited the office of Westchester County District Attorney Janet DiFiore after attending a hearing on their request to see some of the evidence investigators have gathered.

Danroy Henry carried a Bible into court. Angella Henry wore large buttons bearing photos of their son, Danroy Henry Jr., 20.

The Pace University student was killed in his car on Oct. 17 near the scene of a disturbance at a bar in Thornwood, N.Y., not far from the Pace campus. Police said he sped away and hit two officers when a third officer knocked on his car window. Some witnesses dispute that account, and police and prosecutors are investigating.

Family lawyer Michael Sussman has called for a federal investigation, alleging that the district attorney's office is "too cozy" with the police forces involved in the killing.

He said Monday, after the meeting with the district attorney, that "The family and I continue to believe there needs to be a full investigation by federal authorities. That does not represent personal distrust of the district attorney. It represents a view that there is simply too much institutional intermingling to allow for a fair and impartial investigation."

Neither he nor the district attorney's office would discuss what was said at the meeting. The Henrys left without talking to reporters.

In court, Sussman argued for access to 911 calls, surveillance videos and other recordings relevant to the shooting and said he was willing to keep secret whatever was disclosed to the Henrys. He said the Henrys have "a compelling interest" in learning what happened to their son.

But Assistant District Attorney Steven Bender said a grand jury investigation is under way and no evidence should be disclosed in advance.

State Supreme Court Justice Orazio Bellantoni reserved decision.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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