Memphis police Scorpion unit is permanently deactivated after Tyre Nichols’ death
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By Minyvonne Burke, NBC News
The Memphis Police Department said it has permanently deactivated its Scorpion unit following the death of Tyre Nichols.
“In the process of listening intently to the family of Tyre Nichols, community leaders, and the uninvolved officers who have done quality work in their assignment, it is in the best interest of all to permanently deactivate the SCORPION Unit,” the department said in a statement Saturday.
According to the statement, “the officers currently assigned to the unit agree unreservedly with this next step. While the heinous actions of a few casts a cloud of dishonor on the title SCORPION, it is imperative that we, the Memphis Police Department take proactive steps in the healing process for all impacted.”
The risk of death at the hands of police is one reason why Black Americans wonder if they’re really free.
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