Memphis City Council Investigates Retirement of Police Supervisor Involved in Tyre Nichols’ Death

At a recent Memphis City Council meeting, members expressed their dissatisfaction with the retirement of a police supervisor who was on the scene when Tyre Nichols was beaten to death by officers. The supervisor, Lt. DeWayne Smith, retired with his benefits the day before a hearing to fire him. Council Vice-Chairman JB Smiley Jr. said it did not seem fair that the officer could keep his pension and other benefits.

The documents filed to revoke Smith’s law enforcement certification were obtained by media outlets and confirmed his identity on Friday. Smith had been on the force for over 20 years and had been promoted to lieutenant in 2018.

The Memphis Police Department has not commented on the situation, but the City Council is continuing to investigate the matter. Council members are looking into the circumstances of Smith’s retirement and the process of revoking his certification.

The Nichols family has been vocal about their dissatisfaction with the situation. They have called for the termination of all officers involved in the incident and for the Memphis Police Department to be held accountable.

The Memphis City Council is continuing to look into the matter and will be taking steps to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future. The Council is also working to ensure that the Nichols family receives justice.