Statement of the IACP on the Death of Tyre Nichols
Statement of the IACP on the Death of Tyre Nichols
Official Statements
The death of Tyre Nichols at the hands of police officers is appalling and indefensible.
The brutality suffered by Mr. Nichols and the failure of any of these individuals to intervene is sickening and leaves everyone, including police officers, disgusted, infuriated, and outraged. Our thoughts go out to Mr. Nichols’ family, his friends, colleagues, and community.
The individuals involved have rightly been fired and criminally charged in the death of Tyre Nichols. There is no excuse for their actions. They have betrayed their oath of office, disgraced the law enforcement profession, and brought shame on the officers across the nation who work selflessly each day to protect their communities.
As police leaders we remain committed to emphasizing dignity and respect for all and instilling within our agencies a fundamental commitment to the preservation of human life. But we must, and will, do more. We must remain committed to working together in partnership with community members, advocacy organizations, elected officials, and others to build a future that ensures dignity, security, and justice for all.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) have had long standing and positive relationships with both President Trump and President Biden and have greatly appreciated their support of the policing profession. However, the IACP and FOP are deeply discouraged by the recent pardons and commutations granted by both the Biden and Trump Administrations to individuals convicted of killing or assaulting law enforcement officers. The IACP and FOP firmly believe that those convicted of such crimes should serve their full sentences.
Crimes against law enforcement are not just attacks on individuals or public safety — they are attacks on society and undermine the rule of law. Allowing those convicted of these crimes to be released early diminishes accountability and devalues the sacrifices made by courageous law enforcement officers and their families.
When perpetrators of crimes, especially serious crimes, are not held fully accountable, it sends a dangerous message that the consequences for attacking law enforcement are not severe, potentially emboldening others to commit similar acts of violence.
The IACP and FOP call on policymakers, judicial authorities, and community leaders to ensure that justice is upheld by enforcing full sentences, especially in cases involving violence against law enforcement. This approach reaffirms our commitment to the rule of law, public safety, and the protection of those who risk their lives for our communities.
The International Association of Chiefs of Police mourns the devastating loss of three law enforcement officers who were tragically killed in the line of duty on September 17, 2025, in York County, Pennsylvania. These officers were serving a warrant when they were ambushed and fatally shot. Two additional officers remain in critical condition.
This senseless act of violence is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face every day in service to their communities. We extend our deepest condolences to the families, colleagues, and departments of the fallen officers, and we stand in solidarity with the entire York County law enforcement community and in support of the Pennsylvania State Police during the follow-up investigation.
The IACP remains committed to supporting law enforcement agencies across the nation in their pursuit of safety, justice, and resilience. We call for continued efforts to prevent such tragedies in the future. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.
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