HOUSTON - In a major development, Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Sgt. Garret Hardin has been indicted on a murder charge in the fatal shooting of Roderick Brooks. The incident occurred on July 8, 2022, when Brooks was shot in the back of the neck by Hardin during a pursuit. The indictment is the result of a grand jury review and raises questions about the use of force by law enforcement officers.

According to authorities, the chain of events began when Brooks allegedly stole from a Dollar General store on FM 1960 and assaulted the manager. Deputy Hardin pursued Brooks on foot and attempted to apprehend him using a Taser. However, during the confrontation, Brooks managed to gain control of the Taser, leading to the fatal shooting by Hardin.

While authorities claim that Brooks posed a threat to the officer, Brooks' family and their attorney, Sadiyah Evangelista Karriem, contest this narrative. They argue that eyewitness accounts and circulating photos and videos suggest that Brooks was shot in "cold blood." The family's attorney expresses hope that justice will be served and urges for the immediate dismissal of Hardin from his position.

The Harris County District Attorney's Office has a policy of presenting all officer-involved shootings to a grand jury for review. In this case, the grand jury, comprised of 12 randomly selected county residents, decided that there was probable cause to issue an indictment against Hardin. The indictment signifies that there is sufficient evidence to put the case forward for trial.

Justin Keiter, the defense attorney representing Hardin, alleges that the indictment is politically motivated, criticizing District Attorney Kim Ogg's handling of police-related cases. Keiter expressed his readiness for trial and emphasized that his client would turn himself in on Friday morning.

Upon learning about the indictment, Brooks' family released a statement expressing their relief that justice for their loved one is now being pursued. They hope that the trial will hold Hardin accountable for his actions and prevent future injustices at the hands of law enforcement. The family's attorneys are also calling for the firing of Sgt. Hardin and demanding the resignation of Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez for harboring a criminal.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office acknowledged the indictment, stating that Hardin will be relieved of duty following the grand jury's decision. The office will now conduct an internal review of the case to determine any necessary disciplinary action. Video footage of the incident was publicly released by the Sheriff's Office soon after the shooting.

This case adds to the ongoing national conversation about police use of force and accountability. The trial will play a crucial role in maintaining public trust in law enforcement and delivering justice for Roderick Brooks. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community awaits the opportunity for a fair and transparent hearing.