MEMPHIS – The Memphis Police Department confirmed Monday that a sixth officer has been placed on administrative leave related to Tire Nichols’ death.
Five other officers were fired by the department earlier this month, shortly after being placed on leave, and charged last week with second degree murder in connection with the death of Mr. Nichols. It is not clear what role the sixth person, Preston Hemphill, played in the incident that occurred on the night of January 7.
A department spokesman confirmed on Monday that Mr Hemphill had been placed on leave on the same day that other officers were suspended.
Police officers kicked Mr Nichols in the head, pepper sprayed him and beat him repeatedly with batons after pulling him to the side of the road, accused of reckless driving, on January 7, even as he no sign of resistance on videos of the incident released on Friday. Mr. Nichols, a 29-year-old black man, died in hospital three days after the encounter.
This is an evolving story. Check back for updates.
