BRONX , N.Y., Dec. 23 (UPI) -- The sister of slain New York Police Officer Daniel Enchautegui says she is disappointed actor Lillo Brancato was acquitted of killing him.
Brancato, an admitted drug addict best known for his roles in the film "A Bronx Tale" and on HBO's "The Sopranos," was accused of attempting to break into a Bronx home and catching the attention of the off-duty police officer next door who was shot by Brancato's friend -- now serving life in prison without the chance of parole -- when Enchautegui went to investigate.
The actor was charged with felony murder, burglary and attempted burglary because he allegedly helped set off the chain of events that resulted in the officer's death.
A Bronx jury Monday acquitted him of all charges except for attempted burglary.
"I'm disappointed. I'm disappointed," the New York Daily News quoted Yolanda Rosa as saying after the verdict was read. "What message is this sending out to the New York City police officers today? ... Oh, my God. I waited three long years for this. ... It's wrong."
Patrolmen's Benevolent Association President Patrick Lynch echoed the sentiment.
"This would not have happened if not for this animal's drug habit," said Lynch. "The only good thing is that this skunk is not walking out to spend Christmas with his family. The sad part is that neither is Daniel."
Brancato faces between 3 1/2 and 15 years in prison when he is sentenced Jan. 9, the Daily News said.
"The worst is behind Mr. Brancato," the actor's lawyer Joseph Tacopina said. "He's very relieved."
