Actions Of Few Impact Trust: Lawrence PD Chief On Tyre Nichols’ Death

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — Police Chief Chris Longo released a statement to the community on Monday after the footage of Tyre Nichols’s death was made public. Longo reiterated the department’s commitment in maintain a partnership with the community.

Authorities in Memphis released more than an hour of footage Friday of the violent beating of Nichols, in which officers held the Black motorist down and struck him repeatedly as he screamed for his mother, the Associated Press reported.

Nichols, 29, died on Jan. 10, three days after a confrontation with officers during a traffic stop. The five police officers involved in the incident were fired and have been charged with second-degree murder and other crimes. More: DA: 5 Memphis Cops 'All Responsible' For Tyre Nichols' Death

“As Chief of Police of our community, one of my most important goals is building a true partnership with residents based on mutual trust and respect. When police encounters occur, such as the one that resulted in the death of Mr. Nichols, community partnerships with local police departments can become strained,” Longo said.

“Law enforcement is a profession where the actions of a few impact the reputation, trust, and respect of the more than 800,000+ law enforcement professionals throughout the Country, who each day act professionally, with integrity, and respect for the oath they swore to uphold.”

Longo noted that the department was awarded accreditation by the New Jersey State Chiefs of Police Association after an extensive investigation into their policies and practices was conducted. He said the department met the “highest standards of policing” in New Jersey.

“I assure the residents of Lawrence Township that I am committed to doing all I can to bring out the best in our officers so that they succeed daily in their duties,” Longo said.

All township police officers receive training in de-escalation and they attend other training required by the NJ Attorney General.

Additionally, many officers attend Critical Incident Training (CIT) specific to mental health and crisis situations, Longo said.

The police chief also told residents that use-of-force incidents in Lawrence Township are reported to the NJ State Use of Force Repository and reviewed by three levels of supervision.

“Lawrence Township Police Department utilizes methods of detecting early warning signs of potential officer stress and any signs of increased officer aggression,” Longo said.

He also noted that having the trust of our residents was essential for the success of the police department's partnership with the community.

Residents who have questions or concerns can email the police chief directly at clongo@lawrencetwp.com.

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