Police Suspended For Posting Snapchat Of A Black Man

This is part of the problem.

On Thursday, a Memphis police officer shared a sickening Snapchat, pointing a gun at an emoji of an African American man running.

The hand holding the weapon in the photo was white.

The disturbing display was posted in the wake of two police shootings that killed Alton Sterling and Philando Castile, and on the same night that five cops were killed by a sniper in Dallas.

Another officer on the force also shared the snap on Twitter.

We are absolutely horrified that there are people who would actually post something so offensive, especially following these terrible tragedies.

We are even more disgusted that the awful image was shared by the very people who have been enlisted to protect and serve this country's civilians.

Both cops have been placed on paid suspension while they await a hearing over the incident.

The MPD isn't commenting on the motive for the controversial snap, but Interim Director Mike Rallings was outraged by the picture, saying:

"The image is disgusting and will not be tolerated."

He also scolded the officers for sharing the photo, adding:

"We are certainly responsible for the decisions we make, and we are held to a higher standard."

In fact, the MPD's social media policy states:

"Employees must avoid any conduct which could compromise the integrity of the Department. This includes conduct related to materials posted on personal websites, social media, Twitter, Facebook … etc."

Mike promised to look into the posting of the offensive image, continuing:

"The fact that it could have been a Memphis police officer just blew me away, and again we deal with these things."

And sources say the cop who snapchatted the photo in the first place could be fired, while the other officer, who supposedly tweeted it out of anger and disgust, could face a less drastic punishment.

But before any action is taken, Mr. Rallings says he will be investigating the sick situation:

"My job is not shot off with my first emotion. My job is to find out the facts, determine if there is violation and hold officer accountable."

The officers' names have not been released, but sources say the cops have been on the force for eight years.

Source: Perez