By Trend News Line 2024-05-08 21:48:15.
Former Memphis police Officer Indicted for Federal Civil Rights Violations
In a shocking turn of events, a federal grand jury in Memphis, Tennessee, has returned an eight-count indictment charging former Memphis Police Officer Patric J. Ferguson with federal civil rights, kidnapping, and weapons offenses. The charges are in connection with the fatal shooting of a victim identified as R.H. The indictment also includes charges against Ferguson and a civilian, Joshua M. Rogers, for conspiring to cover up the fatal shooting and destroying evidence of the crimes. Rogers is further charged with being an accessory after the fact for assisting Ferguson in covering up his crimes.
Details of the Allegations
The indictment alleges that on January 5, 2021, Ferguson, while on duty as a Memphis Police Department officer, kidnapped and fatally shot R.H. in the head. This resulted in R.H.’s tragic death. Following the shooting, Ferguson allegedly conspired with Rogers to cover up the crime by disposing of R.H.’s body in the Wolf River in Memphis. Additionally, Rogers is accused of selling the car used to transport R.H.’s body at a scrap metal dealership.
Official Statements
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz for the Western District of Tennessee, and Special Agent in Charge Douglas DePodesta of the FBI Memphis Field Office have made an official announcement concerning the indictment. The FBI Memphis Field Office and Memphis Police Department conducted the investigation into this tragic incident.
Legal Proceedings
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard for the Western District of Tennessee, along with Trial Attorneys Maura White and Tenette Smith of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section, are responsible for prosecuting the case. It is important to note that an indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Conclusion
This development has sent shockwaves through the Memphis community and beyond, as the allegations against a former police officer are both troubling and concerning. As the legal proceedings unfold, the public will be closely following the case to ensure that justice is served for the victim and their loved ones. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story..
Former Memphis Police Officer Charged with Federal Civil Rights
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