Officials in Nolan Wells' Mississippi hometown are expressing strong support for the local sheriff, pushing back against accusations that authorities were "derelict in their duties" in their handling of the 18-year-old's death. The criticism came from NAACP President Derrick Johnson during a news conference where attorney Ben Crump announced the results of an independent autopsy.
"We’re not accusing anyone of anything other than the state of Mississippi and local officials. We’re accusing them of being derelict in their duties," Johnson stated, emphasizing the need for a proper investigation to ensure accountability for the family and community.
Wells disappeared on July 4 after a boat trip with friends to Horn Island, a barrier island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Remains were found by a National Park Service ranger on July 6 on the island's northwestern tip after a two-day search.
State Sen. Jeremy England, whose district includes the area where the incident occurred, called Johnson's accusation "completely unfair." England asserted that the sheriff, district attorney, and state law enforcement officials possess "the utmost integrity" and are committed to uncovering the facts. He suggested that the accusations were an attempt to sensationalize the case.
"But these are very good people, and it’s really disheartening to see their name and their reputation being dragged through the mud," England said, adding that investigators would not be swayed by public pressure. He distinguished Mississippi officials as deliberate and thorough, not driven by public opinion as seen in "activist district attorneys and activist sheriffs" elsewhere.
Congressman Mike Ezell, R-Miss., echoed this sentiment, stating he has "full confidence in Sheriff Ledbetter and all of our law enforcement officials as they are working hard to do a thorough investigation." Ezell, a former sheriff and police officer, noted his firsthand understanding of the pressures involved in such work.
During the news conference, attorney Ben Crump revealed that an area of "red discoloration" was found on Wells' head. However, the pathologist who performed the independent autopsy, Dr. Roger Mitchell, could not determine a cause or manner of death pending further investigation. An official autopsy has not yet been completed.
Forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden commented that the head injury did not necessarily indicate foul play, suggesting it could be from bumping into debris in the water, a minor injury that could have occurred before or after death. Mitchell's report noted that non-accidental factors could not be ruled out as contributing to the death.
Rev. Al Sharpton has offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in Wells' death. Authorities have previously stated to the Associated Press that foul play is not suspected. Investigators believe Wells may have chosen to remain on the island, with his friends returning without him on July 4. His mother reported him missing later that night after being informed by one of Wells' friends.