Amid the gruesome video being released this weekend of the horrifying police beating of Tyre Nichols, the world is in outrage at the murderous hands of five Memphis police officers.
Several protests took place over this past weekend to express outrage for the senseless murder of Tyre Nichols.
During the protests, the Rev. Al Sharpton, says the officers who killed Tyre Nichols are a “disgrace to our race,” and called for demonstrators in New York City and elsewhere Saturday to remain peaceful because police “want violence.”
Meanwhile, Preston Hemphill, 26, was one of the police officers who initially stopped Mr. Nichols for an alleged traffic violation prior to his fatal beating.
According to MPD, Hemphill has been relieved of duty since the beginning of the investigation.
Attorneys Ben Crump and Anthony Romanucci issued the following statement about the sixth officer:
“The news today from Memphis officials that Officer Preston Hemphill was reportedly relieved of duty weeks ago. But not yet terminated or charged, is extremely disappointing. Why is his identity and the role he played in Tyre’s death just now coming to light? We have asked from the beginning that the Memphis Police Department be transparent with the family and the community. This news seems to indicate that they haven’t risen to the occasion. It certainly begs the question why the white officer involved in this brutal attack was shielded and protected from the public eye, and to date, from sufficient discipline and accountability. The Memphis Police Department owes us all answers.”
I’m heartbroken and angry to see another family, another community hurting due to police brutality. I stand with my hometown and the people of Memphis as we demand justice and accountability. #JusticeforTyreNichols
— Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) January 28, 2023
