On July 21, 2025, heightened tensions erupted outside the Jefferson County Courthouse in Louisville, Kentucky, as multiple individuals—including Bianca Austin, the aunt of Breonna Taylor—were detained during a demonstration ahead of former Louisville Metro Police Department officer Brett Hankison's sentencing.
Protests Resume as Sentencing Nears
Activists and community members gathered early Monday morning, calling for justice and accountability as Hankison awaited sentencing on federal civil rights charges related to the 2020 police raid that resulted in Taylor's death. Law enforcement increased their presence outside the courthouse in anticipation of large crowds and potential unrest.
According to local officials, several protesters were taken into custody after allegedly blocking courthouse entrances and refusing police orders to disperse. Among those detained was Bianca Austin, a prominent advocate for police reform and Taylor's aunt, who has consistently represented the family at public rallies and court proceedings.
Background on Brett Hankison's Case
Brett Hankison, a former Louisville police detective, was convicted in April 2025 on federal civil rights violations for his role in the botched raid at Taylor's apartment. His actions—including firing shots through a covered patio door—were found to have endangered the lives of Taylor's neighbors and contributed to the fatal outcome.
The case galvanized nationwide protests in 2020 and has continued to be a rallying point for advocates against police brutality and racial injustice.
Police Response and Community Reaction
- Louisville Metro Police stated that the detentions were made "to ensure public safety and maintain order" during high-profile court proceedings.
- Activists criticized the police response as "excessive," noting the peaceful nature of the initial gathering.
- Legal observers from the ACLU were present and monitoring the detentions for potential civil rights violations.
Family members and supporters of Breonna Taylor have called for the immediate release of those detained, emphasizing the right to peacefully protest. As the courthouse prepared for Hankison's afternoon sentencing, crowds continued to gather in downtown Louisville, vowing to keep Taylor's memory at the forefront of the ongoing movement for justice.
Next Steps
Sentencing for Brett Hankison is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. EDT. Community leaders have urged demonstrators to remain peaceful as proceedings continue. Local authorities have indicated that additional security measures will remain in place throughout the day.
