Six former Mississippi law enforcement officers have been sentenced to 15 to 45 years in state prison for the abuse of two Black men. These sentences will run concurrently with federal sentences ranging from 10 to 40 years that were handed down last month. The ex-officers pleaded guilty after the torture of Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker at a home in January 2023.
The group of White officers raided the home in Braxton without a warrant, subjected the two Black men to racist vitriol, used Tasers on them after they had already been handcuffed, beat them with various objects, and one of them shot Jenkins in the mouth.
Jenkins described the horror he endured in a statement read by his attorney, Malik Shabazz, before the sentencing. He detailed the racial slurs and violence inflicted upon them, expressing that they were left to die bleeding on the floor.
The former officers faced state charges of conspiracy to commit obstruction of justice, with additional charges for some of them including home invasion and aggravated assault.
After the sentencing, Jenkins and Parker expressed relief and satisfaction with the sentences, emphasizing their commitment to being voices for change and justice in Mississippi. They encouraged others who may have faced similar situations to come forward and seek support.
The torture incident, which occurred in Braxton, came to light after the victims filed a federal lawsuit. The officers illegally entered a home, subjected the men to brutal treatment, and found no evidence of any crime.
The former officers pleaded guilty to federal charges related to conspiracy, deprivation of rights, and obstruction of justice. The case shed light on a group within the department known as 'The Goon Squad,' which engaged in excessive force and misconduct.
Community leaders and family members of the victims have called for further accountability within law enforcement and emphasized the need for systemic changes to prevent such abuses from recurring.
Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch condemned the officers' actions, stating that the abuse of power will not be tolerated. The sentencing of the ex-officers marks a significant step towards justice for the victims and accountability for those responsible.
