Solicitor Wilson’s Statement in Response to Activists’ Requests Regarding Jamal Sutherland’s Death

The following is 9th Circuit Solicitor Scarlett Wilson’s statement in response to activists’ requests for criminal charges to be filed against the detention deputies involved in Jamal Sutherland’s death:

“On July 26, 2021, I released a comprehensive report that explained my rationale for declining to prosecute the Charleston County Sheriff’s deputies involved in Jamal Sutherland’s death. The report can be found here: https://www.scsolicitor9.org/news/2021/saw-report-final-sutherland-death-investigation-07262021.pdf.

During the investigation of Jamal’s death I continually met with his family. On July 26, when I met with Mrs. Sutherland, the family’s attorneys, and our expert to brief her on my decision, it became apparent from her reaction and pejorative response that Mrs. Sutherland could no longer have a rational conversation with me or my office. We have not spoken since as I respected her wishes. When a family representative contacted me in early December 2021 to request a meeting,  I let them know that I believe a meeting would not be productive and would likely lead to the family’s false hope as I stand firm in my decision. I encouraged them to seek a review. I appreciate the Sutherlands’ perseverance and respect their resolve. After today’s event, I am more convinced that a meeting would not be in anyone’s best interest.

I provided my report to the public at large, to the Department of Justice, and to our state Attorney General. While I stand by my decision, I welcome the review of other prosecutors.”

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