Westchester County Police Chiefs Association Statement on the Death of Tyre Nichols

"As a law enforcement officer, my fundamental duty is to serve the community; to safeguard lives and property; to protect the innocent against deception, the weak against oppression or intimidation, and the peaceful against violence or disorder; and to respect the Constitutional rights of all to liberty, equality and justice." All who wear the badge have taken an oath similar to this. Sadly, this oath was disregarded in a most inhumane way in Memphis on January 7th, 2023 and tragically, Mr. Tyre Nichols died as a result. As City of Memphis Police Chief Cerelyn Davis said, "this is not just a professional failing, this is a failing of basic humanity towards another individual." All of the officers involved in this brutal act will subsequently face a jury of their peers and be held accountable for their actions.

The Westchester County Chiefs of Police Association is comprised of veteran Westchester and Putnam county law enforcement professionals, as well as high ranking personnel from various Federal, State, County and New York City law enforcement agencies, who advocate for the fair and humane treatment of every person, and an effective criminal justice system that protects each and every one of our neighbors. Our members share the commitment of nonescalation, de-escalation, the duty to intervene and the sharing of respectful dialogue, in all of our respective communities every day. Our agencies are the backbone of our communities. We willingly accept that the badge of our office is a symbol of public faith and that we are responsible for the professional performance of our respective agencies.

To witness the video of Mr. Nichols is difficult for all of the honorable men and women of law enforcement, who selflessly and steadfastly keep people safe in our communities. Please know that each of us and our respective agencies share the commitment to respect human dignity and we condemn the inhumane treatment of Mr. Nichols.

To RowVaughn Wells, the Nichols family and the Wells family, please accept our prayers and heartfelt condolences on the tragic death of Tyre Nichols. All of us who respect our oath to protect and serve are saddened and outraged for your loss. May he rest in eternal peace. To the City of Memphis community, our sincere hope that you are able to work through the collective pain and anger in your community.

Love, healing and safety to all,

Robert M. Noble
Westchester County Police Chiefs Association Inc.

Use the link below to download a copy of the letter.