Police on Friday released videos showing the deadly police beating of 29-year-old Tyre Nichols, who died on Jan. 10, three days after he was stopped by police a short distance from his home in Memphis.
>> RELATED: Tyre Nichols death: Memphis police release bodycam footage
Area law enforcement issued statements, some on social media, in reaction to the video. Many condemned the officer’s behavior and shared the impacts it could have on officers nationwide.
In a statement on social media, Richmond Police Chief Michael Britt called the assault which lead to the death of Nichols “unacceptable and repulsive.” He added his department does not support the officers in Memphis who “betrayed public trust.”
January 27, 2023 Message to our Community, Regarding the incident that we have all witnessed with the release of...
Posted by Richmond Police Department on Friday, January 27, 2023
Dayton Police Chief Kamran Afzal also condemned the actions of the officers in a statement, calling it “vile and ugly behavior.” The full statement can be read below:
“Wearing the uniform I wear comes with lots of responsibilities. Over the 31-plus years, I have seen ugly and vile behavior resulting in suffering of victims. It is beyond my understanding and comprehension that someone in my profession could be responsible for such vile and ugly behavior. Tragically, that is what I saw last night as Mr. Nichols was so inhumanely and brutally attacked, ultimately paying the price with his life. These men should be held accountable for their actions, but nothing will bring back a grieving mother’s son.
We, in the profession, must remain vigilant and take a stand that any behavior that deviates from not valuing sanctity of life is not acceptable. We do not have a choice. We must serve all, we must protect all. Our communities expect and deserve the very best of us and we must deliver on that very oath of office to faithfully protect the rights of every citizen we encounter.”
>>Photos: Protests in response to video of Tyre Nichols’ arrest
Springboro’s Chief of Police said in a statement on social media that “unfortunately this incident will tarnish every police officer in America.”
The full statement is below:
“Earlier this evening, like many Americans, I watched the horrific video of the arrest of Tyre Nichols by members of the Memphis Police Department.
I, and the members of the Springboro Division of Police join most of our peers in Law Enforcement in condemning the actions of these officers. It was gratifying to see the City of Memphis move quickly to discharge these officers and file criminal charges.
Unfortunately this incident will tarnish every police officer in America. Every day, thousands of police officers work honorably and diligently to protect and serve their communities. Many of these same officers will be facing several days of dangerous work as chaos will break out in their communities. We pray for calm and peace in those communities that historically ignite in flames when incidents like this occur.
We pray for the family and friends of Mr. Nichols during this difficult time. We also pray for justice for Mr. Nichols and that permanent change will result from the despicable actions of these officers, and eliminate those small number of police officers who possess the intent to act in a similar manner.”
We will continue to update this story as more statements are issued.
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