Daniel Opdyke, a former Mississippi law enforcement officer, was sentenced to more than 17 years in prison by a federal judge for his involvement in the torture of two Black men in January 2023. Opdyke, a former deputy with the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, pleaded guilty to federal charges including conspiracy against rights, deprivation of rights under color of law, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and obstruction of justice.
The incident involved a squad of White Mississippi law enforcement officers raiding a home without a warrant, subjecting two Black residents to racist vitriol, tasing them after they were handcuffed, beating them with various objects, and shooting one in the mouth. The officers then planted a gun on the victims and plotted a cover story.
Opdyke is one of six former officers who have pleaded guilty in connection with the attacks against Michael Jenkins and Eddie Parker. Two other defendants, Christian Dedmon and Hunter Elward, have also been sentenced to prison terms for their roles in the incident.
Former FBI Director Christopher Wray described the acts as “atrocious” and “pure hell.” The officers, including Opdyke, were part of a group known as “The Goon Squad” for their use of excessive force and failure to report it. All six officers resigned or were fired following the incident.
In addition to federal charges, the defendants also face state charges for their actions. The sentencing of the remaining defendants, Joshua Hartfield and Brett McAlpin, is scheduled for Thursday.
The case has drawn widespread condemnation for the egregious civil rights violations committed by the officers. The sentences handed down reflect the severity of the crimes and serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding justice and accountability in law enforcement.
