NEW YORK - A New York Supreme Court judge on Thursday ruled that a public judicial inquiry into Eric Garner's death can proceed.

The ruling clears the way for top officials to take the stand and answer claims of potential violations and neglect of duty leading to Garner’s death.

That includes Mayor Bill de Blasio and  former NYPD Commissioner James O’Neill. 

Garner was killed on Staten Island in 2014 after former officer Daniel Pantaleo used a banned choke hold during an arrest.

Garner was not armed and was suspected of selling loose cigarettes.

Members of Communities United for Police Reform, along with Garner’s mother Gwen Carr brought the litigation.

The de Blasio administration's motion to dismiss the petition was denied.