The Alabama Sheriff's Association (ASA) has come out in full condemnation of the January 7 police beating that allegedly resulted in the death of Tyre Nichols.
Nichols was pulled over for alleged reckless driving. Video and body camera footage show Nichols running from police before being tackled to the ground. Video of the beating shows multiple officers pepper spraying, hitting, batoning and kicking Nichols while screaming curses and commands.
Nichols died three days later in the hospital, and five officers were subsequently fired and criminally charged.
In a release, the ASA blatantly condemned the officers' actions and attempted to distinguish between the Memphis officers' actions and the responsibilities of law enforcement.
"The Alabama Sheriffs Association represents the combined voices of Alabama's 67 Sheriffs," ASA said in a statement. "We are united in our unyielding stand against the actions and images presented in the recently released video in Memphis, Tennessee. We consider it a personal affront not just to us but to the vast majority of peace officers in our nation who place service above self in every action they take."
The now-fired officers face several charges, including one count of second-degree murder, one count of aggravated assault-acting in concert, two counts of aggravated kidnapping, two counts of official misconduct and one count of official oppression.
A number of protests and riots ensued nationwide after the video was released, with many drawing a comparison between Nichols and the death of George Floyd in May 2020.
"As constitutionally elected officials, it is our Sheriffs' duty to do their best to deny individuals who display lawless behavior from joining the ranks of law enforcement," The release continued. "It is also the Sheriffs' duty to act decisively to remove those who engage in actions displaying blatant disregard for the constitutional rights of citizens."
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email craig.monger@1819news.com.
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning
