“We have received media inquiries seeking to clarify the extent of the federal role in the on-going investigation being conducted by state and local authorities into the death of Rene Perez.
“On May 8, 2007, the FBI opened a civil rights investigation into this matter. Thereafter, the Westchester County District Attorney asked the United States Attorney’s Office and the FBI to join the state investigation.
“At the present time, state and federal authorities are not conducting a joint investigation. State authorities will continue their homicide investigation. Federal authorities will continue to actively monitor the progress of the state investigation and to offer assistance as requested. Federal authorities will be reviewing the evidence, including evidence amassed in the state investigation, to determine whether a violation of federal civil rights laws has occurred.
“During the pendency of the state and local investigation, the FBI will remain available to receive information from the public regarding this matter. Anyone with information regarding the circumstances leading to the death of Rene Perez may contact the FBI at (212) 384-5000. Spanish speaking agents will be available to receive such calls,” stated MICHAEL J. GARCIA, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
