The U.S. Department of Justice has announced a court-enforceable agreement with the City of Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) to address unconstitutional practices identified in a recent investigation. The consent decree, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota, aims to reform practices that violate constitutional amendments and federal anti-discrimination laws.
The decree outlines measures to prevent excessive force, stop racially discriminatory policing, improve interactions with youth, protect First Amendment rights, prevent discrimination against people with behavioral health disabilities, promote officer well-being, and enhance supervision and accountability within the MPD. An independent monitor from the Effective Law Enforcement For All team will oversee compliance with these reforms.
Attorney General Merrick B. Garland stated, "This agreement places the City of Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Police Department on a path toward achieving the significant reforms, lawful policing, and appropriate emergency response services that the residents of Minneapolis deserve." He added that this step is crucial following findings related to George Floyd's death.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized that "the people of Minneapolis deserve constitutional policing," noting that this marks a new chapter for a city still healing from past events. She expressed optimism about working collaboratively with local officials and citizens to implement changes.
Ana Voss, Civil Chief and Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota, highlighted that "this agreement calls for focused, measurable, and detailed reforms" reflecting community input aimed at positive transformation.
The Justice Department's investigation revealed issues such as excessive force by MPD officers, racial discrimination in enforcement activities against Black and Native American individuals, violations of free speech rights, and discrimination against those with behavioral health disabilities during emergency responses.
The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section conducted this investigation under provisions from the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994. Since January 2021, this section has initiated multiple investigations into law enforcement agencies across various states.
Further information on police reform efforts by the Civil Rights Division can be accessed online. A virtual community meeting is scheduled for January 14 to discuss details of the consent decree with public participation encouraged.