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A recent investigation by the Justice Department found that the Memphis Police Department has used excessive force and discriminated against Black residents. The department has faced criticism since the death of Tyre Nichols, with the report highlighting instances where children in particular have had negative encounters with officers that were aggressive and intimidating.
Authored by Emily Cochrane and Shaila Dewan
On Wednesday, the Justice Department revealed the findings of its investigation on the Memphis Police Department. The report concluded that the department had employed unnecessary force, showed bias towards Black individuals compared to white individuals, and mishandled those with mental health problems. These violations were described as having a harmful impact on civil rights.
In a 73-page report, it was highlighted how children were treated poorly, citing instances of "aggressive and frightening" interactions with officers. The report mentioned a specific case of an 8-year-old boy with behavioral health problems who had nine encounters with officers between December 2021 and August 2023. During these encounters, he was threatened, pushed, handcuffed, and even thrown.
The Police Department has faced criticism since January 2023, when officers fatally assaulted Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, during a traffic stop on his way home from work. The incident was recorded on body and street cameras, leading to widespread public outrage and testimonies from community members about the department’s history of using excessive force.
Following the death of Mr. Nichols, the Justice Department initiated a civil rights investigation called a pattern-or-practice inquiry. This inquiry is distinct from the charges brought against five former Memphis officers related to the case, filed at both federal and state levels.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke from the civil rights division of the Justice Department stated that the residents of Memphis should have a Police Department and city that upholds their civil and constitutional rights, builds trust, and ensures their safety. She mentioned that the agency is eager to implement changes that will rectify the issues that were uncovered.
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