**press Release**

Tomorrow, Saturday, July 21, State Senator Eric Adams will be joined by the first Russian-born New York State legislator, Assemblyman Alec Brook-Krasny, other officials from State and City government, and members of the community to commemorate the life of slain Police Officer Russel Timoshenko. Senator Adams invites everyone to participate in the vigil and silent walk, beginning at 10:30am in front of the 71st Precinct, located on the corner of Empire Blvd. and New York Ave. The silent walk will conclude at Lefferts Ave. and Rogers Ave., the site of the shooting.

Background: On Monday, July 9, 2007, Police Officer Russel Timoshenko was brutally assaulted on a Brooklyn street during a traffic stop of a suspicious vehicle. Officer Timoshenko died of his gunshot wounds five days later. The 23-year-old officer was assigned to the 71st Precinct and had been a member of the New York City Police Department for 1.5 years.

Those who knew the slain officer noted that police work had always been one of his passions, and Police Commissioner Ray Kelly eulogized the murdered policeman, stating that “Officer Timoshenko made the ultimate sacrifice with unflinching bravery and dedication to duty." City Council Member Letitia James was “both saddened and outraged” by the shooting, and she urged citizens to report any criminal activity they observe so that “through mutual respect and concern, residents and the NYPD can work together to protect their communities.” State Assemblyman Karim Camara counseled that “we focus our energies” to “stop the weapons of mass destruction--guns--that…destroy countless lives.” Senator Eric Adams is seeking to galvanize and channel reaction to this devastating event, averring that.

“Our Community cannot remain silent in the wake of this recent tragedy.
We must stand united and show our support for those who give their lives in order to protect ours. It is important that we stand together with our police officers to call for unity, justice, and peace, and an end to senseless violence.”
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WHAT: Vigil and silent walk: To commemorate the life of Police Officer
Russel Timoshenko

WHO: NYS Senator Eric Adams, State and City officials, and members of
the community

WHEN: Saturday, July 21, 2007 Time: 10:30am

WHERE: 71st Precinct – Corner of Empire Blvd. and New York Ave.
(ending at Lefferts Ave. and New York Ave.)