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A recent investigation by the Justice Department found that Memphis Police have been using excessive force and discriminating against Black residents. The department has been under review ever since the death of Tyre Nichols. The report highlighted instances where children, in particular, had faced aggressive and intimidating interactions with police officers.
Written by Emily Cochrane and Shaila Dewan
The Justice Department announced the findings of its investigation into the Memphis Police Department, revealing that they had engaged in excessive force, displayed bias against Black individuals compared to white individuals, and mistreated individuals with mental health issues. The report highlighted that these civil rights violations had a detrimental impact on the community.
The report, which was 73 pages long, highlighted the concerning treatment of children by officers. It mentioned that children had faced intimidating and hostile interactions with officers. For example, an 8-year-old boy with behavioral health problems had been involved in at least nine incidents with officers between December 2021 and August 2023. During these incidents, he was threatened, pushed, handcuffed, or even thrown by the officers.
Since January 2023, the Police Department has faced criticism after officers fatally assaulted 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 showing the incident sparked widespread outrage and led to residents coming forward with accounts of the department’s history of using excessive force.
After Mr. Nichols’ death, the Justice Department initiated a civil rights investigation called a pattern-or-practice inquiry. This investigation is distinct from the charges brought against five ex-Memphis officers in relation to the case.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s civil rights division 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 expressed the agency’s anticipation of implementing changes to correct the issues that were identified.
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