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The Justice Department found that Memphis Police used excessive force and discriminated against Black residents. The department came under investigation after the death of Tyre Nichols last year. The report highlighted instances where children, in particular, had faced aggressive and intimidating interactions with officers.
Written by Emily Cochrane and Shaila Dewan
The Justice Department revealed the findings of its inquiry into the Memphis Police Department, which showed instances of excessive force, discrimination against Black individuals compared to white individuals, and mistreatment of those with mental health issues. The report concluded that these civil rights violations had a damaging impact.
The report, which was 73 pages long, highlighted the way children were treated, emphasizing that they had faced "intense and scary interactions with officers." According to the report, an 8-year-old boy with behavioral health problems had been in contact with officers at least nine times between December 2021 and August 2023. During these encounters, he was threatened, pushed, handcuffed, or thrown multiple times.
The Police Department has faced criticism since January 2023, when officers killed Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, during a traffic stop on his way home from work. Video footage from body and street cameras showed the incident, leading to widespread condemnation and reports from other community members about a history of using excessive force by the agency.
Following the death of Mr. Nichols, the Justice Department initiated a civil rights investigation called a pattern-or-practice inquiry. This investigation is distinct from the charges brought against five former Memphis officers related to the case, both at the 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 ensures their civil and constitutional rights, builds trust with the community, and prioritizes safety. She also mentioned that the agency is eager to implement changes to address the issues that were identified.
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