HARRISBURG (Jan. 30, 2023) – The following statement was issued by Pennsylvania Bar Association President Jay N. Silberblatt regarding the recent death of 29-year-old Tyre Nichols in Memphis:
“Our justice system depends on the right of due process, and it must be preserved and respected at every level. Our civil society suffers when any citizen’s due process is prevented at the outset or severed midstream.
“The recently released video capturing the beating of Tyre Nichols during a January 7 traffic stop is yet another example of a failure to uphold due process and the rule of law.
“As we learn more about the subsequent death of Mr. Nichols on January 10 from injuries that he sustained during the encounter with law enforcement personnel, the phrase ‘justice denied to one is justice denied to all,’ rings louder in the hearts and minds of all of us in the legal community. Our justice system requires adherence to this long-held legal maxim.
“The Pennsylvania Bar Association stands with other organized bar associations in the support of actions that will better ensure fair and equal application of the rule of law and public safety for everyone.”