A judge has scheduled sentencings in December for five former Memphis police officers convicted of federal charges in the 2023 beating death of Tyre Nichols. The previous judge recused himself, leading to the delays in the sentencing process.
During a hearing, U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman set the sentencing week for Dec. 15. However, the dates are subject to change pending rulings on sealed motions, including a request for a new trial for three of the men.
Judge Lipman mentioned she anticipates ruling on the pending motions by mid-September.
U.S. District Judge Mark Norris recused himself just days before the sentencing was due, with no public explanation for his decision. Subsequently, Judge Lipman took over the case.
A flurry of sealed motions was filed after the recusal, including defense attorneys’ plea for a new trial. The City of Memphis and other parties have filed motions to unseal the documents.
On Jan. 7, 2023, the officers were involved in the fatal beating of Nichols, triggering nationwide protests and calls for police reform.
The incident involved officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin, Desmond Mills Jr., and Justin Smith, who were indicted for their roles in the beating. Haley was found guilty of violating Nichols’ civil rights, while others faced obstruction of justice charges.
The Scorpion Unit, to which the officers belonged, was disbanded following the incident. An investigation revealed excessive force and discrimination by the Memphis Police Department against Black individuals.
The case attracted significant attention, highlighting the need for police reforms in the city of Memphis.
