PADC Issues Statement on the Death of Tyre Nichols

PHILADELPHIA ASSOCIATION OF DEFENSE COUNSEL
STATEMENT ON THE DEATH OF TYRE NICHOLS

The tragic and senseless death of Tyre Nichols has caused pain and anguish to his family and in our communities. The Philadelphia Association of Defense Counsel stands with other organized bar associations in demanding thaall citizens, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender or identity be treated fairly. We endorse what has been saidby so many other organizations, officials and concerned citizens: reforms are needed. But this refrain seems a hollow statement when we consider what happened to Mr. Nichols and to others in similar, notorious events in our recent history. While many of these tragedies were captured with bodycam and other recording devices, so many are not. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. So, we must continue to push for all communities and citizens to receive safe community-based policing regardless of a person’s immutable characteristics. Ultimately, there needs to be a change in people’s hearts. We know that most who serve in law enforcement and public safety are good, hard-working people who are engaged in a noble cause. We should all be able to trust those who are sworn to serve. The gut-wrenching video of the encounter with Tyre Nichols and his tragic death eats at that trust.As we work toward a better day, we know that for Tyre Nichols and his family, all this comes too late. So, for Tyre and his family, we mourn.

The Executive Committee of the Philadelphia Association of Defense Counsel
February 21, 2023