Tyre Nichols Verdict Reflects a Policing Culture that Normalizes Unchecked Force

Yesterday, the Center for Policing Equity issued a poignant statement following the acquittal of three officers acquitted in the brutal beating of Tyre Nichols on January 7, 2023, in Memphis. Despite systemic knowledge of inequality, the verdict underscores a continued lack of accountability. Nichols' death exemplifies a policing culture perpetually permitted to inflict force. The recent revival of punitive rhetoric by the Trump administration validates this abusive impunity. Our thoughts remain with Tyre’s family and all communities still seeking justice. Editor’s Note: The jury that delivered this verdict was all-white, relocated from predominantly Black Memphis.