Daniel Satre was a loving father, son, brother, and friend to many. He was a beloved member of the community and a successful business owner. On September 20, outside of his home and unarmed, Daniel was beaten, tasered, and killed by six police officers while four other officers watched. We never expected to lose him so soon. We could never fathom it would be at the hands of the people we trust to serve and protect. As his family, we are still waiting for justice. There has not been an independent investigation and the officers involved have not been held accountable. We are asking you to join us in calling for an independent investigation so those responsible for Daniel’s senseless death can be brought to justice.

Daniel liked getting to know people and we want you to know him. He was a good man who didn’t deserve to die this way. Daniel loved to put a smile on the face of others, cracking a joke whenever he got the chance. He was a member of the Saratoga Chamber of Commerce who loved being a salesperson and business owner. Daniel loved his family and when at home was usually seen with his beloved cat. He was just a normal guy. What he wasn’t, was a criminal.

On September 20 Daniel sat on his porch, his cat curled up on his lap, and said “I love you and goodbye” to his daughter on the phone. Daniel’s daughter didn’t know she was saying goodbye to her father for the last time.

It’s still unclear why Daniel became upset, but he did become distressed and was seen by two police officers in the street outside his house. They called for backup and were joined by eight other officers. We understand officers have to think about their safety and those around them, but what happened next was an excessive use of force and resulted in Daniels death. Officers knew Daniel is unarmed, yet six of the officers grab for him and begin to beat him. Tasers were used on him several times. Four of the officers stood by and watched as everything unfolded. They did this until Daniel was unresponsive. Moments later he would be dead.

As you read this, the official autopsy has been kept under wraps and still not made available. Those responsible are still patrolling the streets. The time is now for New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman to call for an independent investigation that is transparent and brings justice for the family and community.

We have always believed, as Daniel did too, we must stand together to support our men and women in blue who put their lives on the line to protect the community. But with that trust must come the highest level of accountability, bringing officers to justice when they abuse the power granted to them by their communities. Join us in calling for an independent investigation now! Please sign and share our petition today.