JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi Court of Appeals reversed the conviction of a former Jackson police officer in connection to the death of George Robinson.

Anthony Fox was initially convicted in the 2019 death of Robinson. Fox was sentenced to five years in prison in August 2022 after a jury found him guilty of culpable negligence manslaughter.

Fox was accused of repeatedly hitting Robinson in the head and chest during a traffic stop. He said Robinson failed to comply with the traffic stop. Robinson died two days after the incident.

Fox was later hired by the Clinton Police Department.

The Court of Appeals reviewed the case and found that the evidence was insufficient to support the verdict.

Recently, the Mississippi Supreme Court agreed to review an order that denied Fox bond pending an appeal in his case.

In July 2023, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office recommended a reversal in the case.

“We are grateful that Officer Anthony Fox has finally received the acquittal he deserves. This office will not shy away from the tough calls to do what is right and just. And here, the evidence led us to one conclusion: Officer Fox should be acquitted. We appreciate the Court of Appeals’ thorough review of the facts and law that led to the same determination,” Attorney General Lynn Fitch (R-Miss.) said.

The Hinds County District Attorney’s Office released a statement about the court’s decision.

“While we are disappointed in the Court of Appeals’ decision today, we respect the Court’s opinion and thank the Court for its careful consideration of this case. The Hinds County District Attorney’s Office’s goal in each case is to seek justice. In prosecuting this matter, our office followed the recommendation and will of the law enforcement agency who investigated this case, the Hinds County Grand Jury that returned a true-bill indictment, and the 12 jurors who received the evidence, were instructed on the law, and unanimously returned a verdict of guilt. In this case, as in every case, our office followed the law and discharged our constitutional and statutory duties. While we carefully review the Court’s decision and evaluate the appropriate path forward, our thoughts and prayers are with the family of George Robinson,” said Hinds County District Attorney Jody Owens.

Officials with the City of Clinton said Fox will resume his duties as a narcotics detective with the city’s police department as soon as possible.