After the violent attack on 29-year-old Tyre Nichols by police in Memphis, Tennessee, for which the officers involved have now been charged, Greater Sudbury Police have released a statement denouncing the officers actions as “egregious and disgusting.”
The violent assault causing death occurred on Jan. 7 when Nichols was pulled over for what is being referred to as a routine traffic stop. As a result of the attack, the officers have been fired and they have since been charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault, two charges of aggravated kidnapping, two charges of official misconduct and one charge of official oppression.
The grieving family of Tyre Nichols called for calm across the United States on Friday as a country racked by racial and cultural divisions witnessed evidence of another young Black man enduring brutal, deadly violence at the hands of police.
In response to the assault and the recent release of body-cam footage, Greater Sudbury Police have said the officers involved are a “disgrace to the profession.”
“The outrage felt by Mr. Nichols’ family, by the black community and by racialized people everywhere is justified,” reads the statement. “We want you to know that we share your disgust. Anyone who proudly puts on a uniform and swears to serve and protect is outraged too. We stand with you.”
While they note that they feel the actions of these officers do not “represent the profession” as a whole, “we know that given the violence, aggression and excessive use of force displayed, public trust will be tested.”
GSPS also reference the footage that shows Nichols being beaten to death.
“People are angry, as they should be. As the video of this violent beating is made public, we know this will trigger and hurt many living here in Sudbury and millions around the world. We understand and empathize with the communities impacted by this, including members of our service and our profession.”
They also note that, as a police service, they are angry.
“This is not how to protect and serve a community. Through our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion contacts, we will continue to offer our support to those in our community who have been affected. We take pride in being a respectful and inclusive police service and we will continue our efforts of building meaningful relationships with the diverse communities that we serve.”
