In response to the public release of the police video in the arrest and beating of Tyre Nicholes in Memphis, Wichita Police Chief Joseph Sullivan Friday evening, released the following statement:
Good evening. As you know, I am Joe Sullivan, Chief of Police for the Wichita Police Department. By now I'm sure many of you have seen the video out of Memphis that shows the horrific beating of Mr. Tyre Nichols. I have seen it as well.
Like many of you, I am shocked and sickened by the actions of those officers and I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to the entire Nichols family.
I want to applaud Chief CJ Davis on her handling of this incident. I also want to ensure the citizens of Wichita that the Wichita Police Department stands by you in your anger, sadness, and frustration with this despicable act of violence committed by 5 human beings who disgraced the badge.
I wish I could say in 40 years of Policing that this is the first time I have seen this type of case, but sadly it's not. What I can say, is that the Wichita Police Department is not just here for you, we are here with you.
We do not support nor defend officers who act like they are above the law and use excessive and unnecessary force against those they swore to protect and serve.
We look forward to many great things we will do in this city in 2023. We look forward to continuing to set the standard for how the community and the police work together. Because the police are the community. We are a community first.
I want to thank you for welcoming me into your community as your Police Chief. I look forward to continuing to lead the great people of the Wichita Police Department.
Thank you.
