The controversial case involving the death of Manuel Ellis, a Black man who was shocked, beaten, and restrained by police officers in Washington state, has taken another surprising turn. According to recently released documents, the three officers involved in Ellis’ death, who were cleared of criminal charges, will each receive a hefty sum of $500,000 to voluntarily leave the Tacoma Police Department.
The news of this settlement has sparked outrage and raised questions about the accountability and justice system. Critics argue that it sends the wrong message to the public and rewards officers for their involvement in the tragic incident. Anne Bremner, an attorney for one of the officers, Timothy Rankine, defended the decision, stating that it signifies the loss Tacoma will face by losing these “excellent officers.”
The acquittal of Rankine, Matthew Collins, and Christopher Burbank came after a lengthy trial that lasted over two months. Rankine faced charges of manslaughter, while Collins and Burbank were charged with manslaughter and second-degree murder. However, the jury found them not guilty on all counts.
The voluntary separation agreements between the officers and the city were released along with the announcement that none of the officers violated the use-of-force policy in effect at the time of the incident. It is worth noting that the policy has since been updated, as it was deemed unfit for serving the best interests of the police department and the community.
While the officers’ departure from the police department is seen by some as a responsible and constructive step forward, critics argue that it is a perverse reward for their actions. Matthew Ericksen, an attorney for Ellis’ family, expressed his disapproval, highlighting that the officers had already received approximately $1.5 million during their nearly four-year paid leave.
The U.S. attorney’s office in Seattle has indicated that it is reviewing the case. The scope of the review and potential federal civil rights violation charges are yet to be disclosed. Ellis’ death stirred racial justice demonstrations in the Pacific Northwest, although it did not gain the same level of attention as the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis several months later.
This case raises significant concerns about accountability, police misconduct, and the need for reform within law enforcement agencies. It remains to be seen how the justice system will address these issues and ensure justice for victims like Manuel Ellis.
A memorial for Manuel “Manny” Ellis in Tacoma, Wash., in 2021. (Image source: Ted S. Warren / AP file)
Tacoma Police officer Matthew Collins during his trial alongside codefendants Christopher Burbank and Timothy Rankine in Tacoma, Wash., in 2023. (Image source: Brian Hayes / The News Tribune via AP)
Tacoma Police officer Christopher “Shane” Burbank during his trial alongside codefendants Matthew Collins and Timothy Rankine in Tacoma, Wash., in 2023. (Image source: Brian Hayes / The News Tribune via AP)
Tacoma Police officer Timothy Rankine during his trial alongside codefendants Christopher Burbank and Matthew Collins in Tacoma, Wash., in 2023. (Image source: Brian Hayes / The News Tribune via AP)
Source: F5mag.com