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Memphis Cop Gets 18 Months for Civil Rights Violations
Former Memphis police officer Isaac White was sentenced to 18 months in prison, two years supervised release and a $4,000 fine for violating the civil rights of Pierre Jefferson, authorities announced yesterday.
The abuse of power occurred on May 8, 2008, when White, after handcuffing Jefferson, rammed Jefferson’s head into the corner of a building and struck him in the face several times, causing him to fall to the ground. White also admitted to kicking Jefferson after he fell to the ground.
“Police officers are entrusted with great power so that they can carry out their critical public safety responsibilities,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice does not tolerate excessive force, and when officers abuse their power by abusing people in their custody, the department will aggressively prosecute.”
U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton, III, said, “The citizens of the Western District of Tennessee are entitled to know that when dealing with a law enforcement officer the officer is there to protect them, not prey upon them. Accordingly, this office will pursue these cases vigorously.”
Memphis Police Department Director Larry Godwin said, “Again this shows the partnership between the Memphis Police Department and U.S. Attorney’s Office. Illegal and criminal activity will not be tolerated by the Memphis Police Department.”
FBI Special Agent Amy Hess said, “The FBI holds as one of its highest priorities the investigation of civil rights violations, and the Memphis Division will pursue those who are entrusted with protecting our citizenry and violate that trust. The FBI will continue to work with its law enforcement partners to ensure that justice is served.”
The case is a result of the continued joint efforts by the Memphis Police Department, the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The case was investigated by the FBI/MPD Joint Task Force and the Organized Crime Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Steve Parker and Brian Coleman, and Civil Rights Criminal Section Trial Attorney Jonathan Skrmetti.
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Key Facts
- State: Tennessee
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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