Five former Memphis police officers who were involved in the beating and murder of Trye Nichols have now been kicked out of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity.

Emmitt Martin, III, Desmond Milles, Jr., and Tadarrius Bean are the ousted former officers. The three former officers have all pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, and official misconduct. They all could face 15 to 20 years in prison.

Ricky L. Lewis, the 42^nd Grand Basileus of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., called the tragic death of Mr. Nichols unacceptable.

“We strongly condemn the conduct of former Memphis police officers involved in the incident, including the three-member former members of our organization. “The brutality shown in this video not only violated our moral sensibilities but also transgressed our Fraternal Code of Conduct,” said Lewis.

The men and others were assigned to the Scorpion Squad, the members of which dressed in casual clothes and drove unmarked cars while on duty.

Several cops pulled over and charged Nichols with reckless driving.  Nichols asked them what he had done. He was answered by being wrested from his car and beaten. 

The Fire Department Ambulance Service crew called to the scene did not offer Nichols assistance for 20 minutes, though he was clearly badly injured. Three fire officials have been dismissed.

Nichols died of his injuries in the hospital three days after the beating.



Lewis said, “We extend our heartfelt and earnest sympathies to the family and friends of Mr. Nichols.”