In a landmark ruling, three Washington state police officers were exonerated of all charges related to the 2020 death of Manuel Ellis, an African American man. Ellis passed away following a physical altercation with the officers, where he was tasered, hit, and pinned down on a Tacoma street, pleading that he was unable to breathe.
Overview of Legal Charges
Officers Matthew Collins, 40, Christopher Burbank, 38, were on trial for second-degree murder and manslaughter, while their colleague Timothy Rankine, 34, faced a manslaughter charge. The defense claimed that Ellis’ demise was a result of excessive methamphetamine in his system and an existing heart condition, not due to police conduct. The jury found in favor of the officers, acquitting them on all counts.
Public and Legal Reactions to the Verdict
The reading of the verdict elicited audible shock from those present in court. An emotional Rankine was seen wiping tears, and Collins shared an embrace with his lawyer. Matthew Ericksen, representing Ellis’ family, voiced profound disappointment, condemning the defense’s focus on Ellis’ history rather than the incident itself.
Incident Background
Manuel Ellis encountered the officers while returning from a 7-Eleven store with doughnuts. The officers alleged that Ellis behaved aggressively, warranting their response. This claim, however, was contradicted by eyewitnesses and video evidence, which depicted Ellis as compliant before being forcefully restrained.
Arguments Presented in Court
While the defense argued the case around Ellis’ health and drug use, the prosecution challenged the officers’ application of force. The jury, ultimately, aligned with the defense’s perspective.
Wider Societal Impact
Ellis’ death catalyzed racial justice demonstrations across the Pacific Northwest. This trial was notable as it tested a new state law designed to facilitate the prosecution of police officers for improper use of deadly force.
Community Response to the Acquittal
In response to the verdict, Ellis’ family and supporters convened for a vigil near his mural in Tacoma, with around 100 individuals attending, expressing their collective sorrow and anger.
Official Statements
Washington’s Attorney General Bob Ferguson, who led the prosecution, thanked the jury for their duty despite the outcome. Governor Jay Inslee and Mayor Victoria Woodards of Tacoma released statements acknowledging the community’s anguish and affirming their commitment to justice and transparency.
Continuing Internal Review
Despite the acquittal, an internal probe by the Tacoma Police Department into the incident remains underway, with potential disciplinary actions, up to dismissal, under consideration.
Resolution of Civil Suit
The Ellis family had previously settled a civil lawsuit against Pierce County, receiving $4 million, signifying the case’s significance beyond the criminal proceedings.
©unityus.org