New York State Police shot and killed 27-year-old John Rasanen during a 6 a.m. raid on his home at 12 Overlook Drive in Aquebogue, Long Island, on 17 May 2002.[1][2] Rasanen was the primary target of a six-month joint investigation with Suffolk County police into what officers described as his “mid-level” dealing of marijuana and cocaine.[2] Two troopers with guns drawn entered his dark basement bedroom as he lay in bed with a woman; seconds later Trooper Daniel Brown shot him once in the chest after Rasanen ignored orders to lie down and lunged toward the trooper.[1][2] Rasanen died on the spot, and an autopsy showed the bullet had ruptured his lung.[1][2]
Police found a loaded .45-calibre semi-automatic behind a television within feet of Rasanen’s body, though officers said he did not appear to be moving toward it.[1][2] They also reported four ounces of cocaine in his possession and $5,022 in cash.[2] State Police commander Maj. Walter Heesch defended the shooting as justified, citing Rasanen’s behaviour and prior police knowledge that he kept weapons, while acknowledging Rasanen had no record of violent criminal behaviour.[2] Family lawyers disputed the account, saying an unarmed man had been shot in his home and calling for a special investigation; the findings were to go to a Suffolk County grand jury.[2]
Wider sweep
Officers executed search and arrest warrants at four East End locations that morning, including Rasanen’s parents’ house in Northampton, and arrested his associates at three further houses.[2] Corey G. Clancy, 26, arrested upstairs at Rasanen’s home, was charged with possession of marijuana and cocaine, while three other people in the house were questioned and released.[2] In all, nine people were arrested on narcotics, weapons and conspiracy charges, and police said they recovered cocaine, marijuana, two stolen motorcycles, guns and large amounts of cash.[2]
