Date:   January 30, 2023

Ref:     An Open Letter to the Residents of Montgomery County

From:  Executive Board of the Police Chiefs' Association of Montgomery County (PCAMC)

Our nation witnessed another horrific act of violence at the hands of police officers that resulted in another needless death. Tyre Nichols was a man, a son and more importantly a valued human being. The unnecessary escalation of violence by these police officers and the failure of any of the officers to intervene and render aid are reprehensible.

The prompt internal investigation by the Memphis Police Department and the subsequent dismissal of all the officers involved along with the swift approval and filing of murder charges by the District Attorney's office was appropriate and justified. As police officers, we take an oath of office and have a duty and responsibility to protect and serve the community. The actions by these officers were not only a betrayal of the oath taken to protect the community but also a betrayal to the profession and those who serve and protect their community daily with dignity, honor and respect.

His death must stand as another reminder of the need for more oversight and responsibility within law enforcement. This incident showcases a systematic failure of accountability that still exists within some law enforcement agencies in the country. While this lack of accountability is still a factor, it should not diminish the strides taken by law enforcement agencies to update policies and increase training of personnel in use of force tactics, de-escalation methods, implicit bias, cultural diversity, mental health awareness and duty to intervene.

Sadly, the unjust killing of Mr. Nichols once again highlights the concerns expressed by our community members. These fears are real and justified based on long history of documented police violence towards members of the community. Law enforcement professionals must acknowledge these concerns and continue to proactively work with the communities they serve to rebuild trust.

The Executive Board Members of the Montgomery County Police Chiefs Association along with our fellow Chiefs of Police in this county stand united on maintaining the highest standards of police accountability and training and understand the importance of maintaining our local relationships with community leaders and community engagement in addressing policing issues and concerns that arise in our local jurisdictions.

Moving forward, members of the PCAMC will continue working with their local community leaders, religious centers, and schools to address community concerns about law enforcement practices through their regular community engagement and outreach programs.

Respectfully,

PCAMC Executive Board