Justice Denied: Family Rejects Settlement in Tragic Death Case
A Fight for Accountability
In a startling turn of events, Bettersten Wade, whose brother George Robinson died tragically in a police encounter in 2019, has rejected a settlement offered by the city of Jackson, Mississippi. This decision stems from a breach of confidentiality by city officials who publicly disclosed the settlement amount.
A Promise Broken
Wade’s attorney, Dennis Sweet III, revealed that the city violated a non-disclosure agreement that was part of the settlement. The disclosure, along with an apparent attempt by the city to claim a victory, led Wade to pursue legal action once more.
“This sends the wrong message about human life, especially Black people’s lives,” said Jackson City Council member Kenneth Stokes. “I think it would’ve been a step in the right direction to pay the family a little bit more.”
The Incident
Robinson, a 62-year-old Black man, died after being forcibly removed from his car by three Black Jackson police officers who were searching for a murder suspect. Despite Robinson not being involved in any crime or posing a threat, he suffered from a severe beating that ultimately led to his death.
A History of Miscarriages of Justice
In a parallel case, Wade also lost her son, Dexter Wade, to a tragic traffic incident involving an off-duty Jackson police officer in March 2023. His initial burial in a pauper’s cemetery without proper notification of his family raised concerns about systemic issues.
An independent autopsy later revealed that Dexter Wade had identification documents in his possession, suggesting that his identity could have been easily established. An alternative burial was eventually arranged more than seven months after his death.
A Quest for Closure
Wade has fought tirelessly for justice in both her brother’s and her son’s deaths. The rejected settlement highlights the ongoing struggle to hold accountable those responsible for the loss of loved ones. Her pursuit of justice serves as a poignant reminder of the continuing need for transparency, accountability, and respect for Black lives.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
