The third member of a Mississippi deputy group, self-dubbed as the “Goon Squad,” was sentenced to federal prison this Wednesday. Daniel Opdyke was given 17.5 years due to his role in the torture of two Black men. This disturbing incident took place in January 2023, when six law enforcement officers who were a part of Mississippi law enforcement, without any warrant or exigent circumstances, intruded into the homes of Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker.
Despite the absence of any probable cause suggesting the involvement of the men in criminal activities, the law enforcement officers handcuffed both men within their own home. The officers reportedly warned both men to “stay out of Rankin County,” while repeatedly addressing them via racial slurs. The officers also subjected both men to physical abuse and tasing 17 times. More disturbingly, the victims were made to swallow unidentified liquids before former deputy Hunter Elward fired his gun in Jenkins’ mouth.
The officers left the premises without providing any medical aid to the victims. Furthermore, they managed to eradicate surveillance footage and falsely charged Jenkins for crimes. You can learn more about the incident here.
Consequent to the event, Mississippi State Attorney General Lynn Fitch, along with the Department of Justice, publicly condemned the officers. She emphasized the importance of maintaining trust between law enforcement and citizens while asserting her continued fight for justice. You can read her statement here.
Insuating the severity of the offence, the six officers were charged with 16 felonies encompassing civil rights conspiracy, deprivation of rights, discharge of a firearm during a violent crime, and obstruction of justice. The officers pled guilty to all charges. More detailed comments from the victims’ attorney, Malik Shabazz, can be found in this video.
Opdyke is the third officer from the group to be sentenced. Previous sentences for two other agents were carried out earlier this week. Here are more details about those sentences.
It’s worth noting that this case is a significant reminder to all law enforcement agencies across the nation to respect and uphold the principle of rule of law and to prevent such heinous incidents from reoccurring in the future.