Ex-Hartford officer Joseph Magnano faces judge for first time since fatal shooting

Former Hartford police officer Joseph Magnano appeared in court Friday for the first time since being charged with manslaughter in the fatal shooting of Steven Jones, a man who was experiencing a mental health crisis.

The brief hearing was held to move the case through the court process and potentially elevate it to a higher court. Magnano did not enter a plea, but his attorney has said in prior interviews that he intends to plead not guilty.

The case stems from a February incident in Hartford’s North End. Police body camera footage shows officers spending several minutes trying to convince Jones to drop a knife. According to investigators, Magnano arrived at the scene last and, in under a minute, shot Jones nine times.

Magnano was fired by the city one month after the shooting. In May, the Connecticut Inspector General determined the shooting was unjustified, and Magnano was charged with manslaughter.

A crowded courtroom was filled with supporters on Friday, with some gathering outside the courthouse after the hearing.

The Hartford Police Union sharply criticized Magnano’s arrest warrant.

“They created a narrative that is so outside probable cause, it is an affront to the judicial system and everyone out here,” said James Rutkauski, president of the Hartford Police Union.

Rutkauski said he hopes the case remains in Hartford.

“I have faith in the process, I have faith in due process, I have faith in the people of Hartford,” said Rutkauski.

Supporters of Jones’ family also attended the hearing, including members of the Greater Hartford NAACP. Jones’ family was not present.

Corrie Betts, president of the Greater Hartford NAACP, said the court proceedings are about accountability.

“Today is about accountability, truth, and the value of Stevie Jones and other humans in our city,” said Betts.

Betts also pointed to video evidence from the shooting, adding that the video tells the story.

“You had three officers doing everything they were supposed to do when it came to policy, and one officer came as an outlaw and shot and killed this man,” said Betts. Magnano is scheduled to return to court on July 21. A decision is expected at that time on whether the case will be reviewed at a higher level.