DENVER, CO — A Colorado jury found two paramedics guilty of criminally negligent homicide in the 2019 death of Elijah McClain. Jeremy Cooper, 49, and Peter Cichuniec, 51, faced trial for their involvement in administering a powerful sedative to McClain during a police encounter.
McClain, a 23-year-old Black man, died following an incident where police detained him after a report of suspicious behavior. The police interaction involved a choke hold, followed by the paramedics injecting McClain with ketamine.
The verdict marks the conclusion of a series of trials surrounding McClain’s death. Previously, one police officer was found guilty of criminally negligent homicide, while two others were acquitted.
Sheneen McClain, Elijah’s mother, responded to the verdicts, stating that the convictions provided limited accountability but fell short of complete justice.
The jury also found Cichuniec guilty of second-degree assault for administering the sedative. This case is notable for the rare instance of paramedics being tried in such circumstances.
Judge Mark Warner ordered immediate custody for Cichuniec, whereas Cooper remains free on bond until sentencing on March 1.
Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser, commenting on the case, emphasized the need for continued efforts to prevent similar tragedies. He affirmed McClain’s innocence and the significance of his life.
During the trial in Adams County District Court, Cooper and Cichuniec testified, defending their decision to use ketamine. They claimed the intervention of police officers complicated their medical response.