Video: Shumpert Family Attorney Makes Demands Of City

TUPELO, MISS. (WCBI) – An attorney for the family of a man killed during a confrontation with Tupelo police has some harsh words and accusations for the city and its police department.

Attorney Carlos Moore says he wants to see changes in Tupelo, accusing city leaders of racism, and demanding answers.

“Black lives do not matter to this administration and that sentiment trickled on down to the members of the Tupelo Police Department,” Moore said.

Moore is the attorney for Ronnie Shumpert’s family.

He unveiled what he calls new information in the officer involved shooting death of Shumpert.

Law enforcement and Moore say that Shumpert ran from an officer.

However, that’s where the version of events start to vary.

Police say the 37 year-old went under a crawl space at a Harrison Street home. Investigators say a K9 was sent in the crawl space and Shumpert came out fighting both officers.

Graphic photos of Shumpert’s injuries were shown to the media on Monday. Moore is claiming excessive force was used by the officer involved, who he identified as Tyler Cook.

“The family has a right to be concerned that their loved one suffered like none other that I know, in a civilized society in teh 21st century. This is something reminiscent of the sixties, of slavery,” Moore said.

Tupelo City Attorney Ben Logan says the case is still under investigation and couldn’t comment on specifically what happened.

However, he did address some of Moore’s claims about racial profiling, racism and a quota system.

“It is ridiculous to make those charges. We have policies and procedures in place and our department is a good department, that has been involved in a tragic event here in the city,” Logan said.

Moore is giving the city an ultimatum, fire the officer involved, fire the police chief, or have the mayor resign, and take down the state flag within 72 hours or he will sue them in federal court.

Cook is on paid administrative leave.

A rally in support of Shumpert is set for Thursday at the Temple of Compassion and Deliverance.