Joint Statement from the NAACP and Georgia State Conference on the Dismissal of Charges in the Killing of Jimmy Atchison
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2025
Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org
ATLANTA – The NAACP and NAACP Georgia State Conference are outraged by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia's decision to drop the indictment against the officer who fatally shot unarmed, 21-year-old Black man, Jimmy Atchison, while he surrendered to police. This shocking ruling implies that federally deputized officers can kill unarmed civilians without consequence.
"For six years, we have stood shoulder to shoulder with the Atchison family as they have demanded justice," said Gerald Griggs, President of the NAACP Georgia State Conference. "Yesterday's decision is not only hurtful to the Atchison family and their community, it further erodes trust in law enforcement. The federal court's dismissal goes against the will of the Fulton County grand jury and undermines the justice that the Atchison family deserves."
"This ruling is as dangerous as it is disgraceful," said Derrick Johnson, President and CEO of the NAACP. "It gives federally deputized officers legal immunity from community oversight and justice. We will not allow law enforcement to devalue our community's lives. The police officer who killed Jimmy Atchison must be held accountable for his actions."
The NAACP demands that the Fulton County District Attorney's Office immediately appeal this decision to the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals and, if necessary, the Supreme Court.
We want justice for Jimmy Atchison and for every family that has been told their pain is not enough to receive it. A badge is never a shield for accountability, because no one should be above the law.
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The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.