[05/27/2025, GRAND RAPIDS, MI]– National Center for Police Defense, Inc. is praising the decision not to retry Grand Rapids Officer Christopher Schurr for his on duty actions that resulted in the death of a suspect in 2022. Late last week Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker announced he will not seek a retrial, a decision that has come following the mistrial declared on May 8th, 2025.
On April 4th 2022, Officer Christopher Schurr found himself in a fight for his life, struggling over control of his taser with a suspect that fled a traffic stop. The suspect was clearly dangerous, attempting to steal the taser from him and obviously with the intent to use it on him. Officer Schurr did what he had to do in self-defense, and was charged with second degree murder for it. Chris is the latest victim of the war on police and was persecuted for doing his job and acting in self defense. In her opening statement at Officer Schurr’s original trial, defense attorney Mikayla Hamilton said: “This case is about self-defense. This was not murder. This was about self-defense. (Schurr) acted to save his own life.”
The prosecutor cited the initial jury’s inability to reach a unanimous verdict as one of the main factors informing his decision not to pursue a second trial. As NCPD Vice President Bert Eyler stated on May 9 in our initial response to the mistrial verdict, “Clearly, this jury at no point agreed that there was enough evidence to find Chris guilty of either voluntary manslaughter or second-degree murder.”
“While we are relieved that Officer Schurr will not be subjected to another protracted criminal trial, this outcome does not equate to exoneration,” continued Mr. Eyler. “The National Center for Police Defense remains steadfast in ensuring that Chris and Brandey Schurr receive the comprehensive support they need—legally, financially, and emotionally—as the civil litigation moves forward.”
Officer Schurr and his family continue to face significant legal expenses and uncertainty. NCPD has established a dedicated defense fund to help cover attorney fees, court costs, and daily living expenses, allowing them to focus on their pursuit of justice and their well-being. To contribute to Officer Schurr & his family, please visit: https://nationalcenterforpolicedefense.com/case-file/officer-chris-schurr-grand-rapids-mi/
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About the National Center for Police Defense
The National Center for Police Defense (NCPD) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing legal assistance, financial support, and advocacy for law enforcement officers who are unjustly prosecuted or financially burdened due to actions taken in the line of duty. Since its founding, NCPD has supported countless officers and their families, ensuring they receive the defense and dignity they deserve.
Media Contact: media@nationalcenterforpolicedefense.com
