JACKSON, Miss. – This week, the NAACP is calling for justice in the federal civil rights cases involving six White former Mississippi police officers. The suspects in the case, who refer to themselves as members of the ‘Goon Squad’ have pleaded guilty to committing egregious acts of racist-based violence against the victims of the case. NAACP Mississippi leadership said the following in response to the crimes committed in these federal cases:

“These sadistic acts of atrocity, conducted by officers sworn to protect the law, are beyond belief. They mirror the dark history of racist police enforcement we’ve witnessed in the state of Mississippi,” said Mississippi State Conference President, Rev. Robert James. “Today we call for police reform, we call for justice, we call for change. We must not continue to let police violence ensue – a badge is not a shield from accountability. No woman or man, regardless of societal status, is above the law and we believe justice will be served.”

Investigations have linked some of the officers in these cases to at least four violent encounters since 2019 – that of which left two Black men dead. Mississippi has a history of racist policing, and the NAACP will continue forging a path forward to ensure Black residents are no longer subjected to such injustice. It remains our mission to ensure all officers involved in the criminal activities of the Goon Squad are held accountable for the crimes they’ve committed.

“The crimes committed by these men cannot be swept under the rug and overlooked. We’ve created a culture of passivism by not holding police accountable for their criminal actions.  It is clear that the repetition of violent policing in America will not end until we uphold the laws of this nation,” said Rankin County Branch President, Angela English. “Justice must prevail and it begins with the removal of Sheriff Bryan Bailey who is directly responsible for the acts of his deputies. It was under his leadership that these crimes were carried out without ramification. We believe it is imperative that the citizens of Rankin County elect a new sheriff into leadership who will protect and serve all residents of our county, regardless of color or creed.”

The NAACP stands with the people of Rankin County, Mississippi. Our fight to ensure equal rights to safety and protection is far from over. To read our letter petitioning for the removal of Sheriff Bailey, visit this link.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.