Former Memphis Police officer pleads guilty in Tyre Nichols death

Desmond Mills Jr., one of the five former Memphis police officers charged in connection with the death of Tyre Nichols, pleaded guilty Thursday to federal civil rights charges, the Department of Justice said.

Mills, 33, had previously pleaded not guilty back in September after being indicted on federal civil rights, conspiracy and obstruction offenses.

Desmond Mills Jr pleads guilty

During a change of plea hearing on Thursday, Mills pleaded guilty to two of the four counts in the indictment — excessive force and obstruction of justice, as well as conspiring to cover up his use of unlawful force, according to the DOJ.

As a result of the guilty plea, the government said it will recommend a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.

Mills is the first of five former officers charged in the case to admit guilt.

Cooperation against the other former officers

As part of this plea arrangement, Mills has agreed to cooperate in the case against four other officers.

The remaining men – Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith – have pleaded not guilty to state charges including second-degree murder, kidnapping and aggravated assault.

It is unclear if they will take a plea agreement.

Mills is currently out on bail as he awaits his May 22 sentencing.