From Boreal Community Media - January 30, 2023


The executive director of the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association issued a statement Friday in response to the body cam footage related to the death of Tyre Nichols. 

Here's the statement: 

The Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association (MCPA) deplores both the actions and inaction of the police officers involved in the tragic and brutal death of Tyre Nichols. 

The release of the body-worn camera video only reinforces our existing and firm belief that the officers were rightly fired and criminally charged in Nichols’ death. 

On behalf of the more than 300 active police chiefs who are members of the MCPA, we express our collective condolences to Nichols’ family and friends and remain deeply committed to use of force policies and practices that prioritize the preservation of human life.

The brutality suffered by Mr. Nichols is beyond unacceptable and must serve as a wakeup call to all law enforcement across the country.  Our association will continue to work with community members, elected officials, stakeholders and our own member agencies to ensure officers act with dignity, respect, empathy and compassion regardless of the situations they face and the people they encounter as they protect and serve communities across our state.  

-       Jeff Potts/Executive Director

Nichols was pulled over for a traffic stop and brutally beaten by five City of Memphis police officers. The officers have been fired and charged with second-degree murder, amongst other charges.