TL/DR –
Eddie Parker and Michael Jenkins, two Black men, were victims of violence and torture inflicted by six white Mississippi law enforcement officers, leading to Jenkins being shot in the mouth. The six officers pleaded guilty to a total of 13 felonies and are set to be sentenced; five face up to 20 years in prison while the sixth could face up to 30 years. The officers, self-proclaimed as “The Goon Squad,” allegedly committed these crimes over nearly two hours due to racial motivations, according to federal prosecutors.
Eddie Parker and Michael Jenkins Endured Torture by Mississippi Officers
Eddie Parker and Michael Jenkins, two Black men, endured extreme violence and torture by six White law enforcement officers. The abuse culminated in Jenkins being shot in the mouth.
Justice May Finally Arrive for Tortured Black Men
More than a year later, the men and their attorney anticipate justice as the officers who tortured them for almost two hours face sentencing in federal court this week. Five officers face a maximum of 20 years in prison, with the sixth facing up to 30 years.
Racial Motivation Behind Abuse by ‘Goon Squad’ Officers
The victims and their attorneys spoke at a press conference about the upcoming federal sentencing. The abusive officers, self-named “The Goon Squad”, were racially motivated, the victims claim.
Details of Torture Uncovered in Civil Rights Lawsuit
Details were disclosed after the men filed a civil rights lawsuit in June. Federal prosecutors confirmed many allegations when the former Mississippi officers pled guilty to 13 felonies related to their torture.
Mississippi Ex-Officers Charged with Civil Rights Violations and Obstruction of Justice
Former deputies of the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department and a former Richland Police Department officer pled guilty to charges of conspiracy against rights, deprivation of rights under color of law, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and obstruction of justice.
Victims and NAACP Demand Maximum Sentencing for Racist Violence
Victims, their families, and the NAACP demand the maximum sentences for the officers, spotlighting the case’s national significance. “The nation is watching…the world is watching,” warned lead attorney Malik Shabazz.
Historic Case Could Set Precedent for Accountability in Police Brutality
Shabazz emphasizes the case’s historic importance. “Never in the history of the United States…have six police officers plead guilty and be headed to court for sentencing at the same time,” he stated.
Justice Department Reaches Out Ahead of Sentencing Proceedings
Shabazz disclosed a meeting between his team and the Justice Department ahead of the sentencing proceedings. US Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Kristen Clarke, also expressed her commitment to eliminating racial intimidation in Mississippi.
Sentencing Scheduled for Former Mississippi Officers
The sentencing of the six former officers is staggered throughout the week. Federal prosecutors seek maximum sentences. Elward, charged with discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence, faces up to 30 years in prison. The others face up to 20 years for their roles in the 2023 incident.
Details of the Torturous Incident in Mississippi
The brutal incident, which included handcuffing, kicking, waterboarding, and attempted sexual assault, took place on January 24, 2023, in Braxton, Mississippi. Racial slurs were reportedly used during the violent acts.
Additional Guilty Pleas and Charges for Former Officers
The six former officers also pleaded guilty to state charges related to the 2023 incident. Additional charges apply to individual officers, and all await sentencing on the state charges.
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