Updated 01/23/2012 06:04 PM
Army To Not Pursue Manslaughter Charges Against Alleged Bully Of Manhattan Private
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The Army has recommended a soldier be court-martialed in connection with the death of a fellow soldier originally from Chinatown.
But investigators suggest the most serious charges related to the death of 19-year-old Private Danny Chen be dropped.
Officials recommended 32-year-old Specialist Ryan Offutt face assault, negligent homicide and reckless endangerment charges in connection with the alleged hazing and subsequent suicide of Chen.
The most serious charge of negligent homicide calls for up to three years in prison, but Chen's family and community leaders say that is not enough.
"We are very disappointed that the involuntary manslaughter charge was dropped. There is a big difference between three and a 10-year prison sentence here," said President Elizabeth OuYang of the Organization of Chinese Americans.
A regional commander will make a final decision.
Seven other members of Chen's unit face similar hearings over the next month.