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HBO’s Nature of the Crime offers an in-depth understanding of crime and redemption, with the episode spotlighting Todd Scott, a man tied to a crime that traumatized the nation. In 1988, he was arrested in connection with the murder of police officer Edward Byrne, which led to outrage and even became a central topic in that year’s presidential elections.
The show provides a platform for Todd to reflect on his past, sharing insights into his life before and after the incident. He speaks openly about his mistakes and the personal transformation he claims to have undergone.
Now 56, Todd remains incarcerated at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in New York, with his next parole hearing set for August 2025.
Who is HBO’s Nature of the Crime's Todd Scott?
Todd Scott was born on November 23, 1968, into a life filled with much trouble. His mother was a heroin addict. He was raised by his grandma, and as a young black man in New York City, Todd had a harsh environment of racial tensions, poverty, and gang poise.
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He claimed that street life had found him at a young age meanwhile, there was a complete air of distrust between the minority communities and the police, which originated from historic racism and frequent victimization.
This strained their connection and drove young people deeper into street culture in search of protection and belonging outside of traditional systems.
How did Todd Scott kill Officer Bryne?
On February 26, 1988, 19-year-old Todd Scott and three guys named Philip Copeland, Scott Cobb, and David McClary went to a parked police vehicle in South Jamaica, Queens.
Inside the car was Officer Edward Byrne, just 22 years old at that time and assigned to guard the house which had been targeted for illegal activities. Todd knocked on the vehicle's passenger-side window, drawing Officer Byrne’s attention. As Byrne turned to respond, one of the other men fired a shot, fatally wounding the officer.
The group then ran away from the location. It was later disclosed that the drug dealer Howard Pappy Mason ordered the killing.
The death of Officer Byrne became a strong symbol of increasing urban crime and drug problems, bringing public safety and law enforcement issues into sharper focus.
Where is Todd Scott now?
In 1988, Todd Scott was arrested with his accomplices for the murder of Officer Edward Byrne. During their trial in 1989, all were given harsh sentences, with Todd being found guilty of second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon, despite not firing the fatal shot. His attorney argued that the punishment aimed to set an example. Todd received a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.
Since 2013, Todd has been eligible for parole, but every request has been denied. His wife, Sabrina Scott, has passionately advocated for his release, stating that Todd is no longer the same person he was at 19.
Todd has expressed deep remorse for his actions, acknowledging the seriousness of his crime and the heavy toll it has taken.
Watch The documentary Nature of the Crime on HBO Max
