Former Memphis Officer Desmond Mills Pleads Guilty in Tyre Nichols Beating Case, Agrees to Testify Against Other Accused Officers

Mills, who faces a recommended 15-year sentence, admitted to repeatedly and unjustifiably striking Nichols, failing to provide medical aid, and conspiring with other officers to cover up the excessive use of force.

Former Memphis police officer, Desmond Mills, pleaded guilty to federal charges of excessive force and obstruction of justice in connection with the brutal beating and subsequent death of Tyre Nichols. This change of plea is part of an agreement which may also involve a guilty plea to related state charges.
The beating of Nichols, which took place in January, sparked nationwide protests and led to calls for police reform in the United States. The assault was caught on camera, showing five officers, including Mills, punching, kicking, and striking Nichols, who died from his injuries a few days later.
The plea agreement outlines Mills's role in the attack, revealing that he pepper-sprayed Nichols and hit him with a baton multiple times without providing an opportunity to comply with police orders. It also detailed how Mills and other officers talked about taking turns to hit Nichols and were on the brink of realizing they were 'about to kill' him.
It appears Mills will be the first of the officers involved to admit guilt and will also testify against his former colleagues as part of the plea deal. If convicted, each officer could face a life sentence. As part of the agreement with state and federal prosecutors, it is recommended that Mills serve a 15-year term.
Mills, along with the other officers involved, have also been named in a civil rights suit filed by Nichols’ family. They are accused of using excessive force, failing to intervene or provide medical aid, and conspiring to cover up their misconduct.