Official Statement regarding Tyre Nichols

In June 2020, the Tennessee Innocence Project released a statement that included, in part:

“It has taken us a few days to find the proper words to express our thoughts in light of the nationwide conversation about systemic racism after the deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Ahmaud Arbery. Their tragic deaths were the latest names added to a list that is already far too long. We add our voice to those calling for change.”

Now we find ourselves in January 2023 with another name added to that list: Tyre Nichols. And again, words fail us in the wake of this unfathomable tragedy. By all accounts, Tyre was a beautiful soul who loved skateboarding, photography, and his family. We are thinking of his mother and father, his son, and those who knew and loved him. We mourn with Memphis, and we marvel at the unyielding demands for justice and reform. We must do better.

The Tennessee Innocence Project looks for patterns or practices that target individuals as guilty when they are not. We routinely challenge evidence that may appear incontrovertible. We question the narratives provided and previously accepted – often without question. As we have seen far too often, official misconduct and false statements are common factors in wrongful convictions.

As we said in 2020, to those fighting injustice: We will continue to stand with you. We will participate, learn, and listen during this national dialogue. To those supporting our work: Thank you for being part of the innocence movement. Rest in power, Tyre.