In a significant development, a Louisiana state trooper pleaded no contest to reduced charges in the 2019 arrest of Black motorist Ronald Greene. This marks the first conviction in a case that sparked national outrage over police brutality. The trooper, Kory York, had initially faced serious charges after body-camera footage captured him dragging Greene by his ankle shackles and forcing him to lie cuffed and facedown before he stopped breathing.
Instead of the original felony charges, York pleaded no contest to misdemeanor battery. This plea deal includes a year of probation and an agreement to testify against the lone officer still facing trial. The decision was made despite objections from Greene's family, who felt misled about the terms of the deal and expressed disappointment at not seeing the felony charges pursued in court.
The District Attorney declined to comment on whether justice had been served in Greene's death, emphasizing that the case remains open. York's plea, equivalent to a guilty plea, will not impact the wrongful-death lawsuit filed by Greene's family. Additionally, York will retain his pension following his retirement from the Louisiana State Police.
The case, once marred by scandal and allegations of a cover-up, has drawn attention to issues of institutional racism within law enforcement. The release of body-camera footage in 2021 revealed the brutal treatment Greene endured during the arrest, including the use of stun guns and physical force.
While the exact cause of Greene's death remains unclear, the plea deal with York reflects a complex legal process surrounding the case. The incident has also prompted federal investigations into the Louisiana State Police's use of force, with ongoing scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department.
Despite the plea agreement, the case continues to raise questions about accountability and transparency in law enforcement. The outcome of this trial underscores the challenges in addressing police misconduct and ensuring justice for victims of police brutality.
For more information, contact AP's global investigative team at [email protected].
