A group of Black clergy members gathered in Tennessee to protest the criminal charges brought against former Chattanooga Police Chief Celeste Murphy. The clergy accused the district attorney of racial bias, but the DA defended the charges as necessary.
Murphy faced a 17-count indictment for allegedly providing false information about her residency. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation found discrepancies in her voter registration and property tax exemption, leading to the charges.
The Black leaders argued that the prosecution was racially motivated and emphasized Murphy's innocence until proven guilty. They highlighted Murphy's accomplishments as police chief, including a high homicide investigation closure rate.
Despite the tension, the district attorney clarified that her office was not directly involved in the case and had recused herself. She criticized the clergy for not addressing crime within the Black community and highlighted the high percentage of Black victims in Chattanooga.
The clergy demanded fair treatment for Murphy, including her full contract payout and increased protection of officials' personal information. Murphy faces charges of illegal voter registration, forgery, perjury, and official misconduct.
She surrendered to authorities and was released on bond. The case continues to spark debate over race, justice, and community engagement in Chattanooga.
