Ex-officers plead not guilty in death of Tyre Nichols

Five former Memphis police officers made their first court appearances Friday. They pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault, and other crimes in the death of Tyre Nichols, 29. Nichols died in the hospital on Jan. 10, three days after his arrest. Video released by the city appeared to show officers stopping Nichols for an alleged traffic violation, pulling him out of his car, chasing him down as he tried to run away, and beating him.

What’s the dynamic in the courtroom? Judge James Jones Jr. in court today acknowledged that emotions were running high but that the officers have an absolute right to a fair trial. The judge asked for continued patience and civility as the case is tried. All five officers charged with Nichols’ death are black, as was Nichols. The officers are all out of jail on bond, and their next hearing is scheduled for May 1.

Dig deeper: Read Brad Littlejohn’s column in WORLD Opinions about the nationalization and politicization of tragedies like the death of Nichols.