Tyre Nichols' death leaves 'stain' on officers, Memphis PD: James Craig
WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT–Former Detroit Police Chief James Craig says bad police tactics often lead to tragic outcomes.
The Memphis Police Department announced on Saturday that it has permanently deactivated its "Scorpion Unit" after the death of Tyre Nichols.
Members of the Scorpion Unit were involved in the traffic stop on Jan. 7 that officials say led to Nichols dying at a local hospital days later.
"Today, Memphis Police Officers assigned to the SCORPION Unit (Street Crimes Operations to Restore Peace in Our Neighborhoods) met with Chief Cerelyn 'C.J.' Davis to discuss the path forward for the department and the community in the aftermath of the tragic death of Tyre Nichols," Memphis police said in a statement.
"In the process of listening intently to the family of Tyre Nichols, community leaders, and the uninvolved officers who have done quality work in their assignments, it is in the best interest of all to permanently deactivate the SCORPION Unit."
"The officers currently assigned to the unit agree unreservedly with this next step. While the heinous actions of a few casts a cloud of dishonor on the title SCORPION, it is imperative that we, the Memphis Police Department take proactive steps in the healing process for all impacted," the police department said.
TYRE NICHOLS DEATH: LAW ENFORCEMENT GROUP 'INFURIATED' BY ALLEGED ASSAULT DURING TRAFFIC STOP
Memphis Police Department Officers Demetrius Haley, Tadarrius Bean, Emmitt Martin III, Desmond Mills and Justin Smith were terminated on Jan. 18 for their role in the arrest of deceased Tyre Nichols. (Memphis Police Department)
Five former Memphis police officers were fired after the incident and are being charged with second-degree murder, aggravated assault as well as other charges.
Nichols died days after Memphis police stopped him for alleged "reckless driving" on Jan. 7. During the traffic stop, officials say that a "confrontation occurred," which led to Nichols attempting to run away from the officers.
When police officers caught up with Nichols, another confrontation occurred, leaving Nichols complaining about a shortness of breath.
TYRE NICHOLS VIDEO: MEMPHIS AUTHORITIES RELEASE FOOTAGE FROM DEADLY TRAFFIC STOP
A Memphis police officer approaches the vehicle of Tyre Nichols on Jan. 7, 2023. (Memphis Police Department)
"While attempting to take the suspect into custody, another confrontation occurred; however, the suspect was ultimately apprehended," MPD said. "Afterward the suspect complained of having shortness of breath, at which point an ambulance was called to the scene."
Nichols was taken to St. Francis Hospital in Memphis in critical condition, but later died on Jan. 10.
On the body camera video, Nichols can be heard saying "I didn't do anything" as officers yanked him out of the car during the traffic stop.
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This photo provided by the Nichols family shows Tyre Nichols, who had a passion for photography and was described by friends as joyful and lovable. Nichols was just minutes from his home in Memphis, Tenn., on Jan. 7, 2023, when he was pulled over by police and fatally beaten. Five Memphis police officers have since been charged with second-degree murder and other offenses. (Courtesy of the Nichols family via AP)
"Watch out, I'ma baton the f--- out you," one officer says.
Officers can be seen punching, kicking, and striking Nichols with a baton several times.
The Associated Press and Fox News' Michael Ruiz contributed to this report.
