NYPD files internal charges in shooting

NEW YORK, May 21 (UPI) -- Three New York police officers acquitted in the Sean Bell shooting and a fourth officer who wasn't charged face new internal departmental charges.

The lieutenant supervising the officers and two detectives who investigated Sean Bell's death also face internal charges, the New York Post reported.

Bell died on what would have been his wedding day outside the nightclub in Queens where he and his friends had gone for a bachelor's party. Two of his friends were seriously wounded as undercover officers who were at the Kalua Nightclub investigating prostitution fired 50 shots into their car.

The charges are the first acknowledgment by the New York Police Department that the shooting may have violated departmental guidelines, the Post said.

Michael Oliver, Gescard Isnora and Marc Cooper, who were found innocent April 25, were charged Wednesday with failing to follow police guidelines along with Officer Michael Carey. Isnora was also charged with violating procedure by following Bell and his companions out of the club while he was undercover.

The officers face internal discipline, including possible loss of their jobs and pensions. They could also be personally responsible for any damages awarded Bell's family in a civil suit.