Former Memphis police officers charged in death of Tyre Nichols face federal indictment

Nichols died in January, days after a traffic stop involving the officers.

Five former Memphis, Tennessee police officers charged by the state in the Jan. 10 death of Tyre Nichols are now named in a federal indictment. 

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmett Martin, Desmond Mills and Justin Smith have been indicted by the Department of Justice for excessive force and failure to intervene, deliberate Indifference, conspiracy to witness-tampering and obstruction of justice.

Nichols died days after a Jan. 7 traffic stop for alleged reckless driving. During the traffic stop, a "confrontation occurred," police said, which led to Nichols running away from officers.

TYRE NICHOLS CASE: MEMPHIS JUDGE DELAYS RELEASE OF VIDEO AND RECORDS

This photo provided by the Nichols family shows Tyre Nichols, who had a passion for photography and was described by friends as joyful and lovable. Nichols was just minutes from his home in Memphis, Tenn., on Jan. 7, 2023, when he was pulled over by police and fatally beaten. Five Memphis police officers have since been charged with second-degree murder and other offenses.  (Courtesy of the Nichols family via AP)

When officers caught up with Nichols, officials say that another confrontation occurred, which led to Nichols complaining about shortness of breath.

"While attempting to take the suspect into custody, another confrontation occurred; however, the suspect was ultimately apprehended," MPD said. "Afterward the suspect complained of having shortness of breath, at which point an ambulance was called to the scene.

From left, Desmond Mills, Demetrius Haley, Justin Smith, Emmitt Martin and Tadarrius Bean. Each of the Memphis Police Department Officers were terminated on Jan. 18 for their role in the arrest of deceased Tyre Nichols. (Shelby County Jail)

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The five officers were fired from the police force. 

Louis Casiano is a reporter for Fox News Digital. Story tips can be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..