Additional Coverage:
Memphis Police Officer Sent Photo of Beaten Tyre Nichols to Ex-Girlfriend
During a trial in Memphis, a former police officer testified that he sent a photo of the injured Tyre Nichols to his ex-girlfriend after he was beaten by police. The officer, Demetrius Haley, was on the phone with the woman when Nichols was pulled over.
Photo Showed Nichols Severely Injured
The photo displayed in court showed Nichols lying on the ground with blood near his mouth and his hands behind his back. Haley’s ex-girlfriend stated that she felt Nichols needed immediate medical attention after seeing the image.
Officer Allegedly Lied to Cover Up Actions
In related testimony, another former officer, Emmitt Martin, acknowledged lying to investigators to justify his actions during the traffic stop. Martin claimed he felt pressure on his duty belt, where his gun was located, but could not confirm if Nichols tried to grab it.
Nichols Beaten Despite Resistance
Martin testified that Nichols was disoriented and unable to comply with officers’ orders. Video footage shows that Nichols was pepper-sprayed and hit with a stun gun before fleeing. The officers then pursued and beat him severely, leading to his death three days later.
Paramedic Testifies to Nichols’ Injuries
A paramedic described Nichols’ injuries as severe, including brain injuries, cuts, and bruises. He also noted that Nichols had no pulse or breathing when he arrived on the scene.