Two former Memphis police officers convicted of obstruction of justice in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols will be released from jail ahead of sentencing in January. However, a third officer found guilty of more serious civil rights violations will remain in custody, as ruled by Magistrate Judge Charmiane Claxton during a federal court hearing.
The officers, part of a crime suppression team, were involved in the beating of Nichols in January 2023. The incident occurred after a traffic stop, where Nichols was punched, kicked, and hit with a baton by the officers. Nichols succumbed to his injuries at a hospital three days after the altercation.
Demetrius Haley, convicted of violating Nichols' civil rights through excessive force and deliberate indifference to his medical needs, will remain in jail. The other two officers, Tadarrius Bean and Justin Smith, will be on home detention with GPS monitoring until sentencing.
While Haley faces up to 10 years in prison for civil rights violations, Bean, Haley, and Smith could receive up to 20 years for obstruction of justice convictions. The officers were found guilty of failing to disclose the extent of force used against Nichols and providing false information on official forms.
The jury watched police video footage of the officers assaulting Nichols, leading to their convictions. Two other officers involved in the incident pleaded guilty and testified for the prosecution.
The officers, who are Black, were fired and indicted following the incident, which sparked national outrage and protests. They have also been charged with second-degree murder in state court.
Despite the convictions, Bean and Smith were acquitted of more serious civil rights violations and conspiracy charges. They will be allowed to leave home for essential activities under the conditions of their home detention.
The case has drawn significant media attention, with defense attorneys emphasizing their clients' compliance with pre-trial release conditions. The officers' actions have reignited discussions about police accountability and the need for reforms in law enforcement practices.
