Tyson’s family members, as well as other Canton police officers, were in the courtroom for Monday’s hearing.

Schoenegge and Burch were charged with reckless homicide and have been in the Stark County Jail since Nov. 1.

The Tyson family’s attorney, Bobby DiCello, said at Monday’s hearing that he would let the court decide the bond, but asked that the presence of more than 50 officers in court not influence her decision.

If convicted of murder, the officers face up to 36 months in prison, a $10,000 fine, and the loss of their jobs.

Tyson, 53, died in police custody on April 18 after fleeing a traffic accident in Canton.

According to the Stark County District Attorney, Tyson ran into a nearby AMVETS club in the 1700 block of Sherrick Road SE and asked someone to call the sheriff.

Instead, Canton police were called to the scene and when they arrived there was a fight inside the club.

After being taken to the ground and handcuffed to his stomach, Tyson told officers he couldn’t breathe.

According to his family, on the police tape, Tyson can be heard telling officers at least seven times in one minute that he can’t breathe.

A Canton police officer had his knee on his back at the time.

Tyson was taken to a local hospital where he died, still handcuffed.

The Stark County Coroner’s Office ruled Tyson’s death a homicide, with contributing causes including acute cocaine and alcohol intoxication and cardiorespiratory arrest.

In a press release, the attorney for Tyson’s family shared their reaction to the decision to indict Schoenegge and Burch, saying they are “breathing a sigh of relief.”

Copyright 2024 WOIO. All rights reserved.