Goon Squad Officer Gets 40-Year Sentence for ‘Shocking, Brutal’ Acts

A Lack of Scrutiny Sexual Misconduct Claims Acting With Impunity A ‘Goon Squad’ of Deputies Little Oversight U.S. World Business Arts Lifestyle Opinion Audio Games Cooking Wirecutter The Athletic You have a preview view of this article while we are checking your access. When we have confirmed access, the full article content will load. A […]

T Kauer T Kauer
Mar 21, 2024 - 07:25
Goon Squad Officer Gets 40-Year Sentence for ‘Shocking, Brutal’ Acts

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A second sheriff’s deputy received a lesser sentence for his involvement in the abuse of Mississippi residents.

A bald man in a taupe blazer in front of a microphone held in front of him. He is backed by three men, two in gray suits and one in a striped polo.
Civil co-counsel Trent Walker, center, spoke to reporters about the sentencing of the third former Rankin County law enforcement officer. His clients, Eddie Parker, left, and Michael Jenkins, were victims of the Goon Squad’s abuses.Credit…Rogelio V. Solis/Associated Press

A former sheriff’s deputy who subjected Mississippi residents to physical and sexual assaults was sentenced Wednesday to 40 years in federal prison.

The officer, Christian Dedmon, was associated with a group of law enforcement officers that terrorized Rankin County and called itself the “Goon Squad.”

During the hearing, Judge Tom Lee of U.S. District Court said that while Mr. Dedmon was not the most senior officer facing prison time, his actions were “the most shocking, brutal and cruel acts imaginable.”

Daniel Opdyke, a member of the squad, was also sentenced Wednesday. Mr. Opdyke received almost 18 years in prison. His attorneys said he had played a smaller role in the abuse.

Earlier in the week, two other group members, Hunter Elward and Jeffrey Middleton, were sentenced to 20 years and almost 18 years. Mr. Elward had shot one of the victims in the mouth; Mr. Middleton was a lieutenant who supervised the group.

Two more squad members are expected to receive sentences Thursday. All six pleaded guilty to state and federal charges last year.

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