Congressman Cleaver’s Statement on the Appalling Murder of Tyre Nichols

"My heart is broken for the family and friends of Tyre Nichols following his murder by five Memphis police officers. First and foremost, I wish to extend my prayers and sympathies to all who knew Mr. Nichols, who was a loved and vital component of his community, and whose life was stolen by one of the most egregious cases of police brutality I have seen in my life. I pray that his memory will be a blessing and a comfort through this extraordinarily difficult time.

"Any death inflicted by law enforcement is a tragedy, but the murder of Mr. Nichols is especially appalling, incredibly infuriating, and something that no family should ever have to endure. It is a horrific reminder of the deadly consequences that arise when some in law enforcement feel they are immune to accountability and above the law.

"I support the arrest and charging of each of these officers, whose egregious conduct and criminal behavior undoubtedly caused the death of this young man. However, a full and extensive investigation must continue to understand why these individuals felt free to conduct themselves in such a despicable manner and so we can take steps to root out such behavior from law enforcement in Memphis and other communities across the country.

"At the same time, Congress must come together and make reforms to our justice system that ensure accountability, dignity, and equality under the law-and that should start with the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act."

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee; Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development, and Insurance; member of the Committee on Homeland Security; and a Senior Whip of the Democratic Caucus.