Second Former Memphis Officer Pleads Guilty in Tyre Nichols Case

Emmitt Martin III, a former Memphis police officer, has pleaded guilty to federal charges in connection with the death of Tyre Nichols, a Black motorist. Martin admitted to depriving Nichols' civil rights and witness tampering, and he agreed to cooperate with federal investigations. His plea follows another officer's guilty plea in November.

Emmitt Martin III, a second former Memphis police officer, pleaded guilty on Friday to federal charges related to the death of Tyre Nichols, a Black motorist whose beating by five officers was caught on videotape and shocked the nation in January 2023.

Martin, one of five officers who were fired and faced criminal charges, admitted to two federal counts – depriving Nichols' civil rights and witness tampering. He agreed to cooperate with the investigation, potentially testifying against his fellow former officers.

Previously, another former officer, Desmond Mills, pleaded guilty to federal and state charges as part of an agreement that reduced his potential life sentence to 15 years. Martin's plea deal suggests a sentence recommendation of no more than 40 years, with the possibility of a lesser term. The federal trial is set to begin on Sept. 9, with the state trial on hold pending federal proceedings.

The case has ignited national discussions on racism and police brutality. Footage showed officers violently assaulting Nichols, who succumbed to his injuries three days later.

(With inputs from agencies.)