SBI completes investigation into shooting of Jai Lateef “Jerry” Williams, D.A. Todd Williams begins review

Buncombe County District Attorney Todd Williams announced today that he has received the full documentation of the State Bureau of Investigations’ report and investigation about the shooting of Jerry Williams by Asheville Police Sgt. Tyler Radford. Todd Williams stated that he would be reviewing the material and make a decision about whether there is cause to bring charges in the case. He also said he would be sharing the findings with the family of Jerry Williams. Additionally, he declined any further comment until he has completed his review.

Regardless of outcome, the incident has already spawned and/or highlighted outrage in parts of the community. It also directly preceded a review of the department’s Use of Force Policy, which involved community organizations. Read more in previous Mountain Xpress stories:

• Community gathers to mourn Jerry Williams, protest police shootings of black men
• Civil rights advocate: APD used excessive force in Williams shooting, failed to render aid
• Demonstrators, community members stage rally & teach-in at Asheville Police Station over Jerry Williams shooting
• Asheville groups seek common ground on city police Use of Force policy
• Culture clash: Facing up to Asheville’s troubled police-community relations

Statement from Buncombe County District Attorney Todd Williams:

Today the NC State Bureau of Investigation submitted its comprehensive investigation and report concerning the officer-involved shooting of Jai Williams for review. The submission includes more than 900 pages of written documentation, hundreds of digital photographs and multiple hours of audio and video recordings. I will carefully review all of the submitted materials, present the investigation’s findings to the family, and make a charging decision without undue delay. In this case, as in all cases, I am obligated to refrain from comment during this phase.