MEMPHIS,Tenn. — For two years WREG has been asking why TBI files are sealed. Now that we’ve seen it, WREG is asking: Why so confidential?
The release of the TBI’s investigation into the Darrius Stewart case has made history. For the first time the public is given a chance to get an inside took into the state’s 800-page investigation.
While it’s a painful read, the release of the TBI investigation into the shooting death of Darrius Stewart by Memphis Police Officer Connor Schilling is something Stewart’s family is thankful for.
“At least moving forward that it’s out there so the public can see what’s really going on in our society,” said Henry Williams, Stewart’s father.
The report includes cellphone video of the fight between Stewart and Schilling, Stewart’s autopsy report, several witness accounts, pictures and several interviews Schilling gave to MPD.
Josh DeVine with the TBI said in some cases information would not normally be seen by the public.
“Names, addresses and personal identities of all parties involved, confidential informant info, medical records, evidence logs and findings,” said DeVine.
However, a lot of that information can also be found in police logs and reports that the public has access to. If you look at Stewart’s TBI file, you’ll see things like names and birth dates have been redacted.
But former U.S. Attorney David Kustoff said this could cause a logistical problem.
“If that had to be done with every single TBI file, it couldn’t be done adequately to protect the sensitive and confidential information people expect,” said Kustoff.
Kustoff also said because the TBI conducts sensitive investigations, it’s important to protect everyone involved.
The TBI said at the end of the day its records are confidential because it’s just following the law, which was put in place back in the 1970s.
There are several local lawmakers who are working to change that law, at least when it comes to officer-involved shootings. Representatives Hardaway and Deberry want the TBI to investigate all fatal officer-involved shootings, and they are also looking to change how those findings are released.
