Memphis Officers Convicted in Tyre Nichols Beating

Three former Memphis police officers were convicted on charges related to the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, but acquitted of the most serious charges in federal court. Demetrius Haley was found guilty of violating Nichols' civil rights causing bodily injury and witness tampering, while Tadarrius Bean and Justin Smith were convicted of witness tampering but acquitted of civil rights violations. The verdicts come after a jury deliberated for about six hours, ultimately finding the officers guilty of lesser charges, which carry significant prison sentences but not life imprisonment. The death of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, occurred after a traffic stop where he was beaten by police officers, leading to nationwide protests. The outcome of the trial has been described as a form of accountability, though Nichols' family and supporters continue to seek broader justice. Sentencing for the convicted officers is scheduled for January 22, 2025.