The U.S. Justice Department has concluded a two-year investigation into the Minneapolis Police Department, revealing a pattern of excessive force and discrimination against Black and Native American individuals. The investigation, prompted by the 2020 killing of George Floyd, resulted in a scathing 89-page report that validates long-standing community complaints of police abuse.
Key Findings of the Investigation
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the findings, highlighting several critical issues:
- Routine use of excessive force, often when unnecessary
- Unjustified use of deadly force and unreasonable use of Tasers
- Frequent violations of residents’ constitutional rights
- Use of potentially deadly neck restraints, despite being banned by the city
- Failure of officers to intervene when witnessing colleagues using excessive force
- Discrimination against individuals with behavioral health disabilities
- Unconstitutional retaliation against protesters and journalists
Garland emphasized that while many officers performed their duties professionally, the observed patterns and practices made incidents like George Floyd’s death possible.
Federal Oversight and Reform
In response to these findings, Minneapolis has agreed to undergo federal oversight as it works to reform its police department. Mayor Jacob Frey and other city officials will negotiate a consent decree with the Justice Department, which a federal judge will oversee to ensure progress in implementing reforms.
Community Response and Ongoing Concerns
The report has been cautiously welcomed by community members, including civil rights activists who have maintained a years-long protest at the intersection where Floyd was killed. Marcia Howard, a Minneapolis teacher and activist, stated that the findings emphasize what Black and Indigenous people have been saying for years about living under a racist regime in the Minneapolis Police Department.
Background on George Floyd’s Murder
The investigation was launched in April 2021, following the conviction of Derek Chauvin for murdering George Floyd. Floyd’s death, captured on video, sparked nationwide protests against police brutality and systemic racism. The incident highlighted long-standing complaints about the Minneapolis police force’s treatment of Black residents.
Federal and Local Response
President Joe Biden called the report’s findings disturbing and reiterated his call for Congress to pass reforms to increase public trust and combat racial discrimination in law enforcement. Mayor Frey welcomed the Justice Department’s assistance in reforming the police department, stating that success will be defined by Minneapolis residents feeling safe during interactions with police.
Next Steps and Similar Oversight Agreements
The process of negotiating the consent decree with the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division is expected to take several months. Similar federal oversight agreements have been implemented in other cities, including Ferguson, Missouri, Baltimore, and Cleveland.
Legal Outcomes for Officers Involved in Floyd’s Death
Derek Chauvin, the former officer convicted of Floyd’s murder, is currently serving a 21-year sentence in federal prison after pleading guilty to violating Floyd’s civil rights. Three other police officers involved in the arrest were also convicted on state and federal charges.
As Minneapolis moves forward with police reform efforts under federal oversight, the city faces the challenge of rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the community it serves. The Justice Department’s findings and the resulting consent decree represent a significant step towards addressing long-standing issues of excessive force and discrimination within the Minneapolis Police Department.