On October 5, 2022, in Shelby County Jail in Memphis, Tennessee, a 33-year-old prisoner was allegedly beaten to death by correction officers.
The incident was captured on surveillance video, sparking significant controversy.
Gershun Freeman, who had only been incarcerated for four days, experienced a psychotic episode in his cell. Following this episode, an altercation with corrections officers ensued, which is believed to have led to his death.
Nine corrections officers have been indicted in connection with Freeman’s death. Two of them, Stevon Jones and Courtney Parham, face charges of second-degree murder and aggravated assault. Jones has additional assault charges against him. The remaining officers are charged with aggravated assault that led to Freeman’s death.
In a surveillance video, correction officers are seen distributing meals. As two officers approach Freeman’s cell, he abruptly exits and sheds his orange jumpsuit. This behavior prompts several officers to respond. Some of these officers allegedly use batons against Freeman. As events progress, two officers are seen falling, and a visibly distressed Freeman is observed clinging to an officer’s leg, only to be pushed away.
Freeman’s ordeal didn’t end there. Appearing disoriented, he trailed two officers with more officers tailing him. As Freeman seemingly tried to go up a flight of stairs, officers cornered him against a wall. At least three officers were identified in the video, punching and pinning Freeman to the ground. Some officers were observed kneeling on him, with one applying pressure with his knee for close to four minutes, after which Freeman became unresponsive.
The prisoner had initially been jailed on charges of kidnapping and assaulting his girlfriend.
Shelby County Sheriff Floyd Bonner, who is running for mayor, referred to the medical examiner’s report. It indicated that Freeman’s death might have been due to a pre-existing heart condition. However, this claim is under scrutiny as attorneys handling Freeman’s civil suit have contested this interpretation.
The officers involved in Freeman’s death are on paid administrative leave while investigations proceed.