Federal Sentencing of Former Mississippi Police Officers

A federal judge on Tuesday handed down sentences to two former Mississippi police officers, previously affiliated with the self-styled “Goon Squad,” for their involvement in the torture of two Black men last year.

Involvement of Former Officers and Pending Cases

Hunter Elward and Jeffrey Middleton, both white ex-sheriff’s deputies, pleaded guilty alongside four other members of the “Goon Squad” – former Rankin County deputies Brett McAlpin, Christian Dedmon, and Daniel Opdyke, as well as former Richland police officer Joshua Hartfield. These individuals are awaiting their sentencing.

Details of the Incident and Civil Rights Lawsuit

The incident occurred on January 24, 2023, in Braxton, Miss., southeast of Jackson, involving the torture of Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker, as they filed a federal civil rights lawsuit in June. Allegations included illegal entry into a woman’s home, handcuffing, kicking, waterboarding, use of Tasers, attempted sexual assault, and a fatal shooting.

Impact on the Victims and Legal Response

Both Jenkins and Parker expressed ongoing emotional and physical suffering. Lead attorney Malik Shabazz emphasized the severity of the attack and the need for accountability. U.S. District Judge Tom Lee condemned the officers’ actions as “egregious and despicable,” justifying a sentence at the top of the guidelines range.

Victim of the Goon Squad

Sentencing and Apology

Elward, aged 31, received a 20-year prison sentence, while Middleton, aged 46, received a 17.5-year sentence as the leader of the “Goon Squad.” Elward publicly apologized to Jenkins during sentencing, expressing remorse for his actions.

Legal Commentary and Justice Department Response

Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the Justice Department’s commitment to holding officers accountable for violating constitutional rights. Additionally, an Associated Press investigation linked some officers to four other violent incidents, resulting in two fatalities.