Nine corrections officers in Memphis have been charged in connection with the death of Gershun Freeman, a 33-year-old inmate who died after being beaten by the officers, PEOPLE confirmed.
The incident, which occurred last October, was captured on video. Stevon Jones and Courtney Parham are facing charges of second-degree murder and aggravated assault, while the other officers are charged with aggravated assault resulting in death. The indictment, released on Thursday, alleges that the officers acted together in committing these offenses.
Freeman had been in jail for four days for allegedly kidnapping and attacking his girlfriend before experiencing a psychotic episode. In the video obtained by PEOPLE, corrections officers are seen giving out boxed meals. As two officers approach Freeman’s cell, Freeman emerges completely unclothed with his arms outstretched. The officers swiftly rush towards the scene and begin to assault Freeman.
The medical examiner’s report cited a pre-existing heart condition as the cause of death, however, the video footage and the indictment suggest that excessive force was used. In one part of the video clip officers are seen beating and kicking Freeman, who eventually goes still. According to the timestamped footage, an officer remained kneeling on him for approximately 3 minutes and 40 seconds while he was already on the ground.
The officers involved are currently on paid administrative leave. The case is being prosecuted by Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk. Sheriff Floyd Bonner announced the indictment at a press conference. This case is just one of many incidents at the Shelby County Jail, which has seen 52 deaths since 2016.
#Clique, what are your thoughts?
