Context:

Jurors are set to begin deliberations in the trial of three former Memphis police officers charged with second-degree murder in the death of Tyre Nichols. The trial follows Nichols' death after a brutal beating during a traffic stop in January 2023, with the incident captured on camera and sparking nationwide protests and demands for police reforms. Nichols, who attempted to flee during the stop, was repeatedly assaulted by the officers, who failed to intervene or seek medical help. The defense argues the officers' actions complied with police policy, while the prosecution maintains they were criminally responsible for excessive and deadly force. The trial underscores ongoing concerns about police conduct, especially in Memphis, a majority-Black city, and follows a federal conviction of the officers on related charges.

Dive Deeper:

• Jurors will deliberate on the charges against Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith, who face state charges of second-degree murder among others, following their federal convictions last year in connection with Tyre Nichols' death.

• Tyre Nichols died after fleeing a traffic stop on January 7, 2023, where he was violently assaulted by five officers, leading to federal and state charges against them. His death prompted national protests and calls for police reform in Memphis.

• The incident was captured on video showing the officers, who are all Black, severely beating Nichols, and then failing to provide necessary medical attention, contributing to scrutiny over police practices in Black communities.

• Defense attorneys argue that Nichols actively resisted arrest and that the use of force was within police department guidelines, aiming to cast doubt on the prosecution's claims of excessive force.

• Prosecutors assert that the officers had a responsibility to prevent the beating and to inform medical personnel of Nichols' injuries, highlighting their failure to fulfill these duties as criminally negligent.

• Two other former officers, Desmond Mills Jr. and Emmitt Martin, have pleaded guilty to state and federal charges, and the trial of the remaining three underscores broader systemic issues within the Memphis Police Department.

• The trial is taking place in a different county to ensure an impartial jury, given the extensive media coverage and public interest in the case, which has highlighted racial and policing issues in Memphis.