Former Mississippi Deputies Sentenced for Shocking Crimes
Two former deputies in Mississippi have been handed lengthy prison sentences by US District Judge Tom Lee after pleading guilty to torturing two Black men in a racially motivated attack.
Details of the Sentencing
29-year-old former Rankin County sheriff’s deputy Christian Dedmon was sentenced to 40 years in prison for committing shocking and cruel acts against the victims. Another former deputy, Daniel Opdyke, 28, received a 17.5-year sentence for his involvement in the crimes.
Victims’ Testimonies
One of the victims, Michael Jenkins, described Dedmon as the most wicked individual involved in the attack and labeled him as the worst example of a police officer in the US. Jenkins also highlighted the racially motivated beatings, torture, sexual assaults, and mock execution carried out by the deputies.
During the sentencing, Dedmon did not make eye contact with the victims when offering an apology. Opdyke expressed deep remorse for his actions, acknowledging the harm caused by his participation in the crimes.
‘Goon Squad’ Sentencing
Prior to this case, two other deputies were sentenced for their roles in the attack. Hunter Elward received a 20-year prison term for shooting Jenkins during the mock execution, while Jeffrey Middleton was sentenced to 17.5 years.
The remaining members of the group, Brett McAlpin and Joshua Hartfield, are set to be sentenced on a later date. All six individuals involved pleaded guilty to the charges brought against them.
Details of the Attack
The former officers admitted to breaking into a house without a warrant and subjecting the victims to unspeakable acts. The victims were handcuffed, humiliated with racial slurs, and physically assaulted with stun guns and a sex toy. The ordeal lasted for over an hour, during which Jenkins sustained serious injuries.
False charges were filed against the victims as part of a cover-up, further exacerbating the trauma they experienced.