In the latest chapter of the nationwide call for police accountability, Harris County Deputy Garrett Hardin was indicted for first-degree murder on October 26, 2023, tracing back to a 2022 incident.
The story began with a seemingly routine 911 call from a Dollar General employee in Houston. The call escalated into a police chase, with body-camera footage capturing Hardin pursuing Roderick Brooks, 47, the suspected shoplifter. A taser shot, a brief altercation, and then, a bullet sealed Brooks’ fate.
While Hardin cooled his heels on administrative duty during the probe, the recent indictment means he’s out, with more repercussions looming.
Brooks’ family, through their attorney, expressed relief, casting Hardin in an unfavorable light, pointing to his questionable 20-year service record. Past indiscretions ranged from minor accidents to severe lapses, including deceit and inappropriate behavior.
Amid this turmoil, Brooks’ family initiated a lawsuit last year, underscoring Hardin’s persistent issues. Given the broader national context and urgency for police reform, Brooks’ case resonates profoundly, accentuating tensions between law enforcement and communities.