
Six white former law-enforcement officers are being sentenced in Mississippi federal court this week for two incidents of abuse against civilians, including the torture of two Black men—a scandal that has shocked a state with a history of racial violence.
The officers, who referred to themselves as the “goon squad,” subjected the men to physical abuse and degrading acts. The incidents prompted proposed state legislation to strengthen law-enforcement training and accountability, as well as state and federal charges against the former deputies. The sheriff is under pressure to step down.
The two Black male victims have since filed a $400 million lawsuit against Rankin County. Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker are suing the county for damages related to emotional and physical injury due to the abuse, which involved a shooting. Their lawyer didn’t return calls seeking comment.