News Releases

Statement From Chief Marcus Jones on the Death of Tyre Nichols

For Immediate Release: Friday, January 27, 2023

Our nation and the law enforcement community are once again faced with the death of a man at the hands of people who have taken an oath to protect and serve.

Five Memphis Police Officers have been fired and indicted on charges including murder and kidnapping in the death of Tyre Nichols. The Memphis, Tennessee officers also face charges of official misconduct and official oppression. Their actions are indefensible.

This latest incident is extremely disturbing, frustrating, and discouraging. Following the death of George Floyd, the Montgomery County Department of Police, along with departments across the nation implemented new policies and training for recruits and current officers.

Police departments nationwide have made a concerted effort to regain the trust of the communities we serve, and the actions by those five officers are not a representation of the hundreds of thousands of men and women who serve within communities across the country, nor do the decisions made by those officers reflect the trainings of our law enforcement professionals.  

It is understandable to be angry. The Montgomery County Department of Police is committed to preserving the First Amendment rights of everyone and we allow community members to exercise their right to protest, however violence is not the answer, nor is it acceptable.

I send my condolences to the family of Tyre Nichols and the Memphis community. MCPD will continue to work in partnership with residents and community members to promote positive change in Montgomery County.  

Marcus G. Jones
Chief of Police, Montgomery County Department of Police 

 

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Release ID: 23-062
Media Contact: S.D. Goff 
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