The Murder Of Tyre Nichols

A new victim, same perpetrator. Yusuf Kamran unveils the systematic prejudice in the justice system of the United States.

The officers approached the vehicle with unjustified excessive force (pointing their firearms is an example of excessive force that can only be used if there is a life threatening case). They verbally threatened to kill and harm him, whilst using profanity The officers arresting him did not state his charges Nichols was listening to the orders to get on the floor and put his hands behind his back - albeit he did not respond to the order to lie down on his stomach instead of his side, an action that did not require the police to use pepper spray.

The only force Nichols showed was to run away, yet still not warranting pursuing him with gruesome levels of force. Furthermore, none of the officers fulfilled their legal duty to call for immediate medical aid or assistance for Nichols' condition. In fact, officers were seen laughing, making jokes, bragging - one officer even sent a picture of Nichols to officers. All 5 officers displayed immense unprofessionalism and deliberate violation of legal conduct They were under investigation on January 18th, fired on January 20th, and have been charged with murder in the second degree. In total, the officers were charged “with seven counts each: Second Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Kidnapping with Bodily Injury, Aggravated Kidnapping in Possession of a Deadly Weapon, Official Misconduct, Official Misconduct – Refrain, and Official Oppression,” TBI reported

This is one of the few police brutality cases where both perpetrator and victim are black individuals. This shows us that despite racial prejudice in law enforcement, there is also rife misconduct and negligence of training In addition, such a successful arrest has not been seen in the past when white police officers have been the perpetrator. In fact, Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, was successfully convicted 7 months after he murdered George Floyd (black victim): a conviction far past the average 30 day arraignment of a trial after arrest.

We grieve Nicholas’ death, further due to the devastating condition in which he passed. But the success in arresting the police officers responsible, reminds us of the many injustices that have occurred in the United States. The problem is not over yet, the bare minimum has been done by arresting the officers responsible in due process This must be implemented in all cases, even when the perpetrator is a white police officer. Lastly, the case reminds us of the international concern on whether police training is adequate if police brutality is immensely common. Attention is needed on this matter, as the American Society can not be sacrificed for the simple recognition of wrongdoing Until then, SAY THEIR NAMES!