On Wednesday, DOJ announced that they would be stepping in to ensure that Tyre Nichols’ family receives justice for his untimely death after the city of Memphis closed its case.
According to NBC News, the review will examine how the Memphis Police Department utilizes specific procedures.
“Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland and Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn J. Davis requested this review, covering policies, practices, training, data, and processes related to MPD’s use of force, de-escalation, and specialized units,” the DOJ said in a statement.
The assessment will be led by COPS, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, now that the city’s inquiry into the death of Nichols is complete.
Additionally, COPS will give local leaders helpful training resources to “help them assess the appropriateness of the use of specialized units as well as how to ensure necessary management and oversight of such units, including review of policies, tactics, training, supervision, accountability, and transparency.”
“In the wake of Tyre Nichols’ tragic death, the Justice Department has heard from police chiefs across the country who are assessing the use of specialized units and, where used, appropriate management, oversight, and accountability for such units. The COPS Office guide on specialized units will be a critical resource for law enforcement, mayors, and community members committed to effective community policing that respects the dignity of community members and keeps people safe,” said Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta.
