TACOMA, Wash. (AP) — An expert in forensic pathology testified Monday in the ongoing trail of three Tacoma, Washington, police officers charged with the death of Manuel Ellis that Ellis likely would have lived if not for the officers’ actions to restrain him.
Officers Matthew Collins and Christopher Burbank, both white, are charged with murder and manslaughter in the death of Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man, on March 3, 2020.
Political Cartoons View All 1211 ImagesMitchell was questioned by special prosecutor Patty Eakes about medical findings that led him to his conclusion.
Prosecutors previously said Ellis' last words were “I can't breathe.”Defense attorneys have generally argued Ellis died of a methamphetamine overdose.
This is the first trial under a Washington state law that makes it easier to prosecute police who wrongfully use deadly force.
Persons:
Manuel Ellis, Ellis, Roger Mitchell, Thomas Clark’s, Matthew Collins, Christopher Burbank, Timothy Rankine, Collins, Mitchell, Patty Eakes, Jared Ausserer, ” Mitchell, Mark Conrad, hogtied
Organizations:
D.C, Pierce, Seattle Times, Tacoma Police Department, Prosecutors, ” Defense
Locations:
TACOMA, Tacoma , Washington, Washington, Pierce County, American, Burbank