BELLINGHAM, Wash. – Leaders of local law enforcement agencies are speaking out about the beating from Memphis Police officers that led to Tyre Nichols’ death.

Whatcom County Sheriff Bill Elfo is not mincing words.

“From what I observed on the part of the five officers was nothing less than a mob mentality that manifested as a callous and vicious disregard for human life,” said Elfo. “That is never okay. I’ve been in law enforcement for over 48 years, and I’ve never witnessed anything like this during my time. There is no excuse for it.”

But he laments that the officers’ actions are mischaracterized as being endemic in law enforcement around the country.

Bellingham Police Chief Rebecca Mertzig and Western Washington University Police Chief Katy Potts released a joint statement on social media.

They say what they saw on video of the beating was “horrendous and criminal, and we are disgusted and outraged.”

They and Elfo say they are committed to hiring officers who will maintain their agencies’ integrity, professionalism, and service to their communities.

You can listen to the full interview with Sheriff Elfo on our Podcast page.