A former Memphis police officer testified under a plea deal that he participated in covering up the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols to protect his job. Desmond Mills, who returned to the stand for a second day in the trial of three former colleagues, admitted to hoping that Nichols would survive and the incident would blow over.
Mills confessed to going along with the cover-up, stating that he needed his job for his family's sake. He mentioned having three young children and expressed regret for his role in making Nichols' child fatherless.
The incident occurred during a traffic stop where Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, was subjected to pepper spray and a Taser before being physically assaulted by five officers, including Mills. Nichols later died in the hospital from head injuries sustained during the beating.
Mills revealed that the officers had an agreement not to disclose the extent of force used on Nichols and falsified reports to make their actions appear justified. He admitted to not rendering aid to Nichols and withholding information from medical staff treating him.
The officers, charged with excessive force, failure to intervene, and obstructing justice, have pleaded not guilty. Mills and another officer are expected to change their pleas. The case also involves second-degree murder charges in state court, where the officers maintain their innocence.
The trial continues as the prosecution presents evidence of the officers' misconduct and attempts to seek justice for the victim, Tyre Nichols.
