The five former Memphis Police officers charged with the death of Tyre Nichols pled not guilty

JACKSON, TENN (WNBJ)-

The five former Memphis police officers charged with second-degree murder in the beating death of Tyre Nichols faced a judge for the first time.

"It's funny because I feel very numb...I feel very numb," said Tyre Nichols' Mother, Rowvaughn Wells.

All five officers appeared in court this morning along with their attorneys, who entered not-guilty pleas on their behalf.

The hearing comes more than five weeks after Nichols died from his injuries sustained during a traffic stop involving Demetrius Haley, Emmitt Martin, III, Justin Smith, Desmond Mills, Jr., and Tadarrius Bean.

All are facing second-degree murder and other charges and are currently out on bond.

“Much has been said about the ways the system has failed mr. Nichols, i will work tirelessly to make sure that the system does not fail mr. Mills and that a fair outcome is achieved," said Blake Ballin Desmond Mills, Jr's attourney.

Nichols' family was present in the courtroom to watch the proceedings.

"I had to be here today to see justice get done for our son, this is a glorious day; this is the beginning of the process," said Nichols stepfather Rodney Wells.

Rowvaughn Wells added, "We're gonna be here at every court date...so that they can know that we're here."

Following the pleas, the judge asked for everyone to be patient, noting that the case may take a long time to settle.

The former officers are scheduled for another court appearance on May 1st.