Law enforcement agencies, others respond to Memphis Police video

(WDBJ) - The deadly beating of Tyre Nichols shown on Memphis Police video footage after five officers were charged is prompting different groups and law enforcement agencies from around the world to respond.

Robert N. Barnette, Jr., President of the Virginia NAACP:

“Watching the brutal killing of Tyre Nichols is not a call for more violence. It is yet another horrifying reminder that the culture of policing must change. Our legislators cannot continue to turn a blind eye to criminal justice reform. We call on every Virginian to call on their legislators to do what is right. Pass legislation that fundamentally changes policing in America.”

Gov. Glenn Youngkin:

“The hearts of Virginians and our entire nation ache tonight as we struggle with the horrible events in Memphis and grieve for Tyre Nichols and his family. The disturbing and shocking video released this evening displays incomprehensible violence towards another human being and we must condemn these heinous actions.

“As we process these agonizing events, I ask those exercising their first amendment rights to do so peacefully. We will ensure Virginians’ first amendment rights as we prioritize and protect the safety of the Commonwealth and all Virginians. We can choose to come together and not further the divide. We must strive each day to better our communities and treat one another with love and respect.

“Suzanne and I are praying for the family of Tyre and for the continued safety of the Commonwealth, all Virginians and our men and women in law enforcement.”

Martin Luther King III:

“I am deeply disturbed by the video released by Memphis Police today. We all witnessed a horrific yet perversely familiar act committed by officers of the law. Everyone involved must be arrested & charged with the murder of Tyre Nichols. His family and our nation deserve justice.”

Blacksburg Police:

Virginia Tech Police:

“The Virginia Tech Police Department acknowledges and shares the wide array of emotions that the recently released video has no doubt evoked amongst our community. The violent images depicted during the video are not representative of what any community expects of its law enforcement and challenges the notion that we have made progress. The actions taken by Memphis officials demonstrate accountability does exist for individuals who abuse their authority.”

“The Virginia Tech Police Department joins the larger community in expressing deep sympathy to the entire Nichols family. We also reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe environment through a strong partnership based on mutual respect with our community members.”

Radford University:

The Memphis Grizzlies and Minnesota Timberwolves:

Justin Timberlake

Copyright 2023 WDBJ. All rights reserved.