(PatriotNews.net) – Former law enforcement officers in Mississippi, who dubbed themselves the “Goon Squad,” faced the music in a federal courtroom as they were sentenced for their involvement in a racially charged torture case. The group, comprising six white men, admitted to torturing and abusing two Black men, Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker, during an incident in January 2023.
Hunter Elward, a former sheriff’s deputy, received a 20-year sentence for shooting one of the victims, while Jeffrey Middleton, described as the ringleader, was sentenced to more than 17 and a half years. The other four former officers, Brett McAlpin, Christian Dedmon, Daniel Opdyke, and Joshua Hartfield, also faced federal charges and pleaded guilty in August.
The horrifying details of the incident, which took place in Braxton, Mississippi, included illegal entry into a woman’s home, handcuffing, kicking, waterboarding, and using Tasers on the victims. The officers even attempted to sexually assault them. The victims later filed a federal civil rights lawsuit, leading to the exposure of the officers’ misconduct.
During the sentencing hearings, emotions ran high as victims, their families, and civil rights activists packed the courtroom. Elward, visibly shaken, expressed remorse and apologized to the victims, while Middleton remained stoic, only showing emotion when addressing the judge.
The judge, Tom Lee, denounced the officers’ actions as “egregious and despicable” and handed down significant prison sentences. Despite pleas for leniency, the severity of their crimes warranted harsh punishment.
Following the sentencing, Attorney General Merrick Garland condemned the officers’ actions, emphasizing the importance of upholding constitutional rights and restoring public trust in the justice system.
As the victims continue their healing journey, questions remain about accountability within the sheriff’s department and the need for systemic reforms to prevent such atrocities from happening again.
The case shed light on systemic issues within law enforcement, with allegations of a culture of violence and racism among the officers. The victims’ accounts painted a harrowing picture of abuse and trauma inflicted by those sworn to protect and serve.
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