Crutcher Family: Betty Shelby 'Got Away With Murder'

<p>As Tulsans continue to react to a jury finding Betty Shelby not guilty of manslaughter,&nbsp;the Crutcher family announced they plan to file a civil lawsuit against the City.</p>

Thursday, May 18th 2017, 6:39 pm

By: News On 6


As Tulsans continue to react to a jury finding Betty Shelby not guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of Terence Crutcher, the Crutcher family announced they plan to file a civil lawsuit against the City.

Emotions were high at Morning Star Baptist church, where the Crutcher family said they condemn the City leaders who call the verdict “justice.”

"We in Tulsa, we are not going to sit by and say it is what it is," said Terence Crutcher’s sister, Tiffany Crutcher.

Justice is something the Crutcher family said they are still waiting for, and Shelby being found not guilty won't change that.

5/17/2017 Related Story: Not Guilty: Jury Acquits Betty Shelby In Terence Crutcher Shooting

"She got away with murder," Tiffany said.

Terence Crutcher's sister said the hours after the verdict have been tough.

While many continue to support and rally behind the family, it's not a feeling everyone shares.

Special Coverage: Terence Crutcher Police Shooting

"I've been harassed all night long by citizens of Tulsa on social media - some citizens stating that Terence Crutcher deserved to die," she said.

But she said the words won’t discourage her, the attorneys, or clergy from raising their voices.

Pastor Ray Owens said, "I've heard city leaders say justice has been served. That is a lie. We didn't witness justice on the fourth floor of the courthouse, we witnessed injustice."

During a one-hour news conference, Crutcher supporters criticized the judicial system and race relations in Tulsa and America. The group called for police reform, asking for new training, body cameras for officers and efforts to recruit diverse officers.

"When we stand up for Terence Crutcher, when we stand up for the least of ye, what we are really are doing is helping America stand up to its creed," said Crutcher family attorney, Benjamin Crump.

Supporters said, although the criminal part of the Crutcher case is over, the family is filing a civil suit.

Attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons said, "Empty rhetoric is not going to pay for the death of Terence."

The Crutcher family is also demanding that Shelby not be put back on the force. They also want lead homicide sergeant, Dave Walker, to be fired.

5/18/2017 Related Story: Tulsa County DA: No Corruption In Tulsa Police Department

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