Five former Memphis police officers charged with murder over the death of Tyre Nichols have pleaded not guilty in their first court appearance.

Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, Desmond Mills Jr, Emmitt Martin III and Justin Smith were involved in the arrest of Mr. Nichols on 7 January.

They were fired after an internal investigation by the Memphis Police Department.

Mr. Nichols' death sparked protests against police brutality in the US.

The judge confirmed the five defendants had pleaded not guilty to charges of second-degree murder, aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping, official misconduct and official oppression.

Judge James Jones asked for patience as lawyers build their cases.

“This case may take some time,” he said to the defendants standing before him alongside their lawyers at the Shelby County Criminal Court.

“We do ask for your continued patience and your continued civility in this case,” he said. (BBC)