The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) is deeply saddened by the death of Mr. Tyre Nichols. First and foremost, it is the position of NOBLE that everyone deserves to be treated as a human being and we ALL must respect the sanctity of life. Law enforcement executives must continue to train officers and hold them accountable to a standard that values human life. Doing so helps to strengthen and build trust in all our communities. The role of law enforcement depends in large part on having the trust of all our citizens regardless of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or gender. Law enforcement must be reminded that our role is to “serve and protect”.
The vast majority of our nation’s officers perform their duties admirably. Traffic stops should be handled whenever possible to prevent or minimize injury or death to the motorist, passengers, bystanders and the officers themselves. While this is a horrific incident, we are encouraged by the swift action of the Memphis Police Department and other law enforcement authorities to address the actions of the officers involved in the form of terminations and indictments.
I would like the family members and friends of Mr. Tyre Nichols to know that we at NOBLE stand with them today and in the future as we share in their sorrow.
Prayerfully,
