Tyre Nichols.Photo: facebook

A former Memphis police officer who initially pleaded not guilty to state and federal charges in connection with the death ofTyre Nicholshas agreed to plead guilty to second-degree murder and other state charges, and has also pleaded guilty to federal charges, authorities announced Thursday.
A statement from theUnited States Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Tennesseestates that Mills has changed his plea to guilty on federal charges of excessive force and obstruction of justice after initially pleading not guilty.
The D.A.’s release stated that Nichols' family was supportive of the agreement.
“I join Tyre’s family in saying this is a fair result, given Mr. Mills’ level of involvement, and his willingness to cooperate with us,” said Mulroy in the release. “His cooperation will help us bring to justice all those criminally responsible while also identifying needs for systemic reform within the police department.”
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Mills is the first officer to plead guilty in connection with the case. Four other Memphis officers face similar charges and have pleaded not guilty, according toThe Associated Press.

The other officers involved in Nichols' case are Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith.
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source: people.com