On September 26, 2024, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Justice Department announced findings from an investigation into civil rights violations by the Lexington, Mississippi Police Department and the City of Lexington. Clarke was joined by Todd W. Gee, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Mississippi.
The investigation found "reasonable cause to believe that the Lexington Police Department and the City of Lexington engage in a pattern or practice of conduct that violates the First, Fourth and 14th Amendments of the Constitution," as well as other federal laws including the Safe Streets Act and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
According to Clarke, "the Lexington police use excessive force; unlawfully stop, search and arrest people — including by jailing people on illegal 'investigative holds' — unlawfully jail people without affording prompt access to court; violate the rights of people engaged in free speech and expression...and unlawfully discriminate against Black people."
Clarke detailed how fines and fees fund policing efforts in Lexington, creating what she described as a "policing-for-profit scheme." She provided specific examples, such as a man who was repeatedly jailed for minor offenses because he could not afford to pay fines or processing fees. Clarke stated that these practices punish poverty: "In America, being poor is not a crime, but in Lexington, their practices punish people for poverty."
She also noted that while some changes have been made following official notice given to city officials on February 29 regarding illegal arrests and detentions due to lack of resources, more meaningful reform is necessary.
The report highlighted significant financial burdens placed on residents due to outstanding fines totaling $1.7 million and over 650 bench warrants issued based on unpaid fines. This has led to unlawful arrests and extended jail times for minor offenses.
Clarke pointed out racial disparities in enforcement practices: "Lexington officers frequently tase, punch and beat Black people without justification...98% of people arrested for traffic offenses are Black." The former police chief Sam Dobbins' departure did not end discriminatory practices initiated under his leadership.
The announcement underscored that small police departments must uphold civil rights just like larger ones. Clarke assured residents that "the Justice Department is committed to providing that protection" regardless of community size.
The City of Lexington has agreed to cooperate with federal authorities in addressing these issues. Clarke emphasized ongoing communication with residents as essential for rebuilding trust: "We stand with the people of Lexington to extend justice to all its residents."
Following her remarks, U.S. Attorney Todd Gee took over.