On Thursday, former Memphis police officer Desmond Mills Jr. pleaded guilty to charges of excessive force and conspiracy related to the death of Black motorist Tyre Nichols. Mills is the first of the five Memphis police officers facing charges to admit guilt.
In his plea agreement, Mills confessed to “repeatedly and unjustifiably striking Nichols with a baton and to failing to intervene in other officers’ use of force against Nichols.” He also admitted to making “false statements in connection with the arrest of Nichols.” For cooperating with prosecutors, they have recommended a 15-year prison sentence instead of life imprisonment. Mills also pled guilty to related Tennessee charges. The final sentence, however, will be determined by the judge.
Shelby County District Attorney Steve Mulroy expressed satisfaction with the plea agreement, stating, “I join Tyre’s family in saying this is a fair result, given Mr. Mills’ level of involvement, and his willingness to cooperate with us. His cooperation will help us bring to justice all those criminally responsible while also identifying needs for systemic reform within the police department.”
29-year-old Tyre Nichols died in the hospital three days following an interaction with Memphis police officers on January 7. The officers said they had pulled over Nichols for reckless driving, a claim that was disputed by Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn Davis. Subsequently released video footage offered a violent depiction of the encounter between Nichols and the five Memphis officers including Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr., Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith, all of whom have been charged in relation to his death.
Mills’ sentencing hearing is tentatively arranged for May 22. The remaining four defendants will face a federal trial on May 6, 2024.