NAACP Calls for Action Against LVMPD Officer Involved in the Tragic Killing of Brandon Durham
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2024
Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON - This week, the Las Vegas Metro Police Department released body cam footage detailing the November 11 incident that led to the death of Brandon Durham, a member of Las Vegas' Black community. On November 11, Durham had called 911 to report a home invasion. Upon arrival, one of the responding LVMPD officers discovered Brandon struggling with one of the home invaders who was wielding a knife. Upon firing the shots that ultimately took Brandon's life, the officer repeatedly told him to 'stay down.'
NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson and President of the Las Vegas Branch of the NAACP, Quentin Savwoir, released the following joint statement in response to the release of bodycam footage detailing the incident:
"When people call 911, they're calling for help — not for a death sentence. If Brandon Durham hadn't called 911, he'd likely be alive today. This case — like too many others before it — reminds us that many police officers do not value Black lives. We are extremely troubled by the continued, barbaric violence perpetrated by law enforcement against Black people. As District Attorney Wolfson conducts this investigation, the NAACP urges his office to take the actions necessary to ensure this negligent officer is not empowered to cause further harm. Ending unjust police violence begins with accountability."
On Saturday, November 23rd between 2-4 PM PST, the Las Vegas branch of the NAACP will be marching for justice at Las Vegas City Hall. For more information, contact the Communications Team at communications@naacpnet.org.
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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.