O P I N I O N

THE SOAPBOX

Stand up. Speak up. It’s your turn.

Our community continues to mourn the death of Nickenley Turenne, who died following an encounter with Manchester police in the early morning hours of Dec. 6, 2025. Once again, our community finds itself confronting difficult questions about policing, accountability, and the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Data from across the country continues to show disparities in how Black and Brown communities experience interactions with law enforcement. At the same time, incidents involving police use of deadly force often leave families and communities searching for answers, while investigations can take months to complete.

Since learning of Nickenley’s death, we have called for accountability, transparency, and justice. The public has a right to understand what happened, and New Hampshire’s Collective Power Coalition continues to await the results of the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Office investigation.

During a meeting with representatives of the Attorney General’s Office on March 10, 2026, we were told that the investigation was expected to be completed by the Fourth of July holiday. We were also told that it is standard practice to share investigative findings with the family before making any public announcement.

On June 15, 2026, we contacted the Attorney General’s Office looking for a confirmation that this timeline remains in place and asking when the family and broader community might expect to receive the results. The family and members of the community have requested a meeting on or about July 1.

We recognize that investigations of this nature can be complex and must be conducted carefully and thoroughly. At the same time, families deserve communication, and communities deserve clarity. Transparency is essential to maintaining public trust.

We call upon the New Hampshire Department of Justice, the Attorney General’s Office, the Manchester Police Department, and city leaders to complete the investigation and make the results available as soon as possible. Whatever the outcome, timely communication can help families, communities, and institutions begin the difficult process of moving forward.

Trust is built through accountability. Accountability must be visible, timely, and meaningful.

In addition to seeking answers in this case, the New Hampshire Collective Power Coalition will continue to advocate for policy reforms that we believe can strengthen trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve, including:

A statewide policing agency charged with accreditation, support, and oversight of municipal and state law enforcement agencies.
A universal statewide use-of-force policy.
State licensing requirements for law enforcement agencies.
The provision of victim and family advocates for families affected by police-involved shootings.
A review of Manchester Police Department policies governing officers’ return to duty following critical incidents.

These proposals may not resolve every concern, but they represent opportunities for thoughtful discussion about how New Hampshire can continue improving public safety while strengthening public confidence.

We remain heartbroken for Nickenley’s family and loved ones. No investigation can undo their loss. But a transparent process, clear communication, and a commitment to continuous improvement can help ensure that communities are heard and that trust can be rebuilt where it has been damaged.

Black communities deserve safety, dignity, and care. Alongside Nickenley’s family and concerned residents across New Hampshire, we will continue to advocate for transparency, accountability, and meaningful dialogue.

Black and Brown lives matter in New Hampshire and everywhere.

Anthony Poore is president and CEO of the New Hampshire Center for Justice and Equity and has lived in Manchester for nearly 30 years.

Tanisha Johnson is executive director of Black Lives Matter New Hampshire and lives in Dover.

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