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A recent investigation by the Justice Department found that the Memphis Police Department has been using excessive force and discriminating against black residents. This scrutiny began after the death of Tyre Nichols. The report highlighted incidents where children, in particular, had been subjected to aggressive and intimidating interactions with police officers.
Written by Emily Cochrane and Shaila Dewan
On Wednesday, the Justice Department shared the findings of their investigation on the Memphis Police Department, concluding that they had engaged in the excessive use of force, showed harsher treatment towards Black individuals compared to white individuals, and mistreated those with mental health concerns. The report highlighted that these civil rights violations had a damaging impact.
The detailed report, spanning 73 pages, highlighted the mistreatment of children, specifically mentioning instances where they faced intimidating and aggressive interactions with law enforcement officers. For example, the report detailed the case of an 8-year-old boy with behavioral health concerns who had nine encounters with officers between December 2021 and August 2023. During these encounters, the boy was subjected to threats, physical force, handcuffing, and even being thrown by the officers.
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 by body and street cameras, leading to widespread public outcry and reports from other community members detailing a history of excessive force within the agency.
Following the death of Mr. Nichols, the Justice Department initiated an investigation into potential civil rights violations, specifically focusing on a pattern of misconduct. This investigation is distinct from the charges brought against five former Memphis officers at both the federal and state levels in relation to the incident.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s civil rights division stated that the residents of Memphis should have a Police Department that upholds their civil and constitutional rights, builds trust, and ensures their safety. She expressed anticipation for implementing changes to address the issues identified.
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