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Justice department finds civil rights violations by Memphis police

LEGAL NEWSLINE

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Justice department finds civil rights violations by Memphis police

Attorneys & Judges
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U.S. Attorney Kevin G. Ritz | U.S. Department of Justice

Following an extensive investigation, the Justice Department has revealed that the Memphis Police Department (MPD) and City of Memphis have engaged in practices violating the U.S. Constitution and federal law. The department's findings highlight several key issues: MPD's use of excessive force, unlawful stops, searches and arrests, discrimination against Black people, and inadequate responses to individuals with behavioral health disabilities.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division stated, "The people of Memphis deserve a police department and city that protects their civil and constitutional rights, garners trust and keeps them safe." Clarke noted troubling policing practices affecting vulnerable residents such as children.

Acting U.S. Attorney Reagan Fondren for the Western District of Tennessee acknowledged concerns about gun violence and crime in Memphis. Fondren emphasized collaboration with local leaders to address these issues, saying, "We hope to work with Mayor Young, Chief Davis, the Memphis Police Department and our Memphis partners to move forward."

The investigation began on July 27, 2023. It involved thorough onsite tours, interviews with MPD officers and city officials, document reviews, body-worn camera footage analysis, and community engagement sessions.

Conducted under Section 12601 of Title 34 U.S.C., this investigation is separate from criminal cases involving former MPD officers related to Tyre Nichols' death. The department plans outreach initiatives for community input on remedies through email or phone submissions. A virtual community meeting is scheduled for December 9.

This inquiry is part of twelve investigations initiated by the Justice Department into law enforcement agencies since April 2021. Previous reports were issued regarding similar investigations in Louisville Metro Police Department; Minneapolis Police Department; Phoenix Police Department; Lexington Mississippi Police Department; Trenton New Jersey Police Department among others.

For more information about these findings or other Civil Rights Division activities visit www.justice.gov/crt.

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