CACP Statement - Death of Tyre Nichols

01/26/23 - 01/26/28

Click here to download a copy of the following CACP statement.

CACP statement – Death of Tyre Nichols following a police interaction

January 26, 2023

The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) and police leaders across Canada are saddened and horrified by the tragic and unnecessary death of Mr. Tyre Nichols following an altercation with five Memphis Police Department officers earlier this month. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and friends for their loss.

The CACP condemns excessive and inappropriate use of force. The officers involved in this situation have been charged with second degree murder. In such cases, we support an accountable and transparent process that holds officers accountable for their actions and for any harm inflicted on the well-being of the community. The concerning actions of the officers involved in the Tyre Nichols case will most certainly have a detrimental impact on the community’s trust and confidence with the Memphis Police Department.

As police leaders, we recognize that the actions of these officers will also impact the trust and confidence in policing throughout the United States and Canada—damaging the reputation of a majority of officers who are unwavering in their commitment to public safety.

Canadian police leaders are committed to transparency, ongoing strengthening of police governance, and modernized, enhanced training. As police organizations, we reaffirm our commitment to ongoing engagement with our communities to ensure the trust and confidence of those we serve.