Manuel Ellis Tacoma Trial: In a case that has captured national attention, the recent trial of Tacoma police officers Christopher Burbank, Matthew Collins, and Timothy Rankine concluded with a surprising verdict. The officers were found not guilty on all charges related to the death of Manuel “Manny” Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man who died in police custody in March 2020.
The controversial trial, marked by gripping evidence and emotional testimonies, has reignited discussions on police accountability, sparking protests in Tacoma and echoing the broader national discourse on law enforcement conduct.
Manuel Ellis Tacoma Trial:
In a highly anticipated trial, a jury has found Tacoma police officers Christopher Burbank, Matthew Collins, and Timothy Rankine not guilty on all charges related to the death of Manuel “Manny” Ellis. The 33-year-old Black man died in custody in March 2020, sparking outrage and protests in Tacoma.
Manuel Ellis Video:
Ellis died after a series of officers knelt or sat on his back while he was bound in handcuffs behind his back, connected to a hobble on his legs. Shockingly, evidence presented during the trial revealed that Ellis informed the police at least five times that he couldn’t breathe. Despite his pleas, the officers continued their actions.
Manuel Ellis Trial:
After a monthslong trial, Burbank and Collins were acquitted of second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter, while Rankine was acquitted of first-degree manslaughter. The officers were accused of unlawfully using deadly force on Ellis during his arrest for allegedly attempting to open car doors of occupied vehicles. The jury’s decision comes as a surprise, especially considering the widespread attention the case garnered.
Legal Milestones:
The trial marked a historic moment as Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson criminally charged the officers in May 2021. This was the first instance of the state’s attorney general pursuing criminal charges against officers for the unlawful use of deadly force. The charges were made possible by Initiative 940, a measure adopted in November 2018 to facilitate the prosecution of police officers for negligent shootings.
Public Outcry and Protests:
Ellis’ death led to protests in Tacoma, echoing sentiments of frustration and anger seen across the nation following the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis. The timing of Ellis’ death, just months before Floyd’s, intensified the calls for justice and an end to police violence.
Attorney’s Statement:
Matthew Ericksen, an attorney for the Ellis family, expressed disappointment after the verdict. He highlighted that Manny Ellis was unarmed and posed no threat when stopped by Tacoma police officers. Ericksen emphasized that Ellis didn’t need to be arrested that night, let alone lose his life. The family plans to seek justice through a federal civil rights lawsuit against the City of Tacoma and six officers involved.
Manuel Ellis Death:
The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office determined that Ellis died from respiratory arrest due to hypoxia caused by physical restraint. According to court documents, officers Burbank and Collins allegedly used excessive force, including an LVNR (Lateral Vascular Neck Restraint) and a taser, without justification. They also failed to provide aid or call for medical help, further complicating the tragic situation.
Manuel Ellis Case:
Defense attorneys argued that Ellis’ death resulted from a lethal amount of methamphetamine in his system and preexisting heart conditions, not the actions of the officers. This contention clashed with the prosecution’s claim that the officers’ use of force and failure to render aid directly contributed to Ellis’ untimely demise.
In June 2020, videos surfaced on social media showing Tacoma officers striking and pinning a Black man later identified as Ellis. The incident prompted calls for the officers’ dismissal and prosecution. In March 2022, Pierce County reached a $4 million settlement with Ellis’ family, acknowledging the pain caused by his death.
Internal Investigation:
The City of Tacoma issued a statement acknowledging that the not-guilty verdicts may intensify the pain for Ellis’ family. The Tacoma Police Department is conducting an internal investigation into the conduct of the three acquitted officers. The investigation will scrutinize their testimony during the trial, and the chief will decide on potential disciplinary actions, including termination, within 10 days.
