On Friday, June 13, 2025, ABC24 reported that Tennessee Federal Judge Mark Norris recused himself from the case involving five former Memphis Police Department officers linked to the death of Tyre Nichols.
The recusal occurred days before scheduled sentencing hearings, according to a court document filed late that day. Norris, who had overseen the case throughout its duration, did not provide a reason for stepping aside. The document stated that the case would be reassigned to another United States District Judge for further proceedings.
The case has been transferred to Chief Judge Sheryl H. Lipman, as indicated by court records. The recusal’s timing raises questions about potential impacts on the upcoming sentencing dates for the officers involved.
Former officers Justin Smith and Tadarrius Bean are scheduled to appear in court for sentencing on Monday, June 16, while Demetrius Haley’s sentencing is set for Tuesday, June 17. Emmitt Martin III and Desmond Mills Jr. face sentencing on June 18 and June 23, respectively. However, Martin’s attorneys have requested a postponement due to unavailable witnesses, with no opposition from prosecutors, though a ruling on the motion is pending.
In the federal trial, which lasted nearly a month, Smith and Bean were convicted of one count of obstruction but acquitted of other charges. Prosecutors have recommended a 151-month prison sentence for both.
Haley was found guilty on four counts, including obstruction, conspiracy to commit obstruction, deprivation of civil rights, and deliberate indifference causing serious bodily injury. Prosecutors have not yet filed sentencing recommendations for Haley.
The case stems from the death of Tyre Nichols, which drew significant attention and led to charges against the former officers. It remains unclear whether Norris’s recusal will affect the scheduled sentencing timeline.
Source: ABC24
