Washington State Patrol to lead independent investigation into death of Manuel Ellis

Gov. Jay Inslee announced Wednesday that the Washington State Patrol will lead an independent investigation into the death of Manuel Ellis.

Ellis, 33, was being restrained by four Tacoma police officers on the night of March 3 after investigators say he charged at them and began fighting with officers. Cellphone video shot by eyewitnesses at the scene showed the officers in a struggle with Ellis.

A report by the Pierce County Medical Examiner shows Ellis was handcuffed, his feet hobbled with a belt and a spit mask was placed over his head. Ellis was heard crying out that he was unable to breathe.

Inslee called for the state to assume jurisdiction of the case after it was revealed that a Pierce County sheriff’s deputy arrived at the scene at some point.

After the independent probe is completed, Inslee said he will forward the results to the state attorney general’s office to determine if the officers should face criminal charges.

The officers are currently on administrative leave, pending review of the case.

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