Here is the DOJ’s report, which states that the MPD and Minnesota’s largest city “engage in a pattern or practice of conduct in violation of the U.S. Constitution and federal law.”
“Our investigation showed that MPD officers routinely use excessive force, often when no force is necessary. We found that MPD officers often use unreasonable force (including deadly force) to obtain immediate compliance with orders, often forgoing meaningful de-escalation tactics and instead using force to subdue people,” the report states. “MPD’s pattern or practice of using excessive force violates the law.”
The DOJ probe found that MPD:
- Uses excessive force, including unjustified deadly force and unreasonable use of Tasers;
- Unlawfully discriminates against Black people and Native American people in its enforcement activities, including the use of force following stops;
- Violates the rights of people engaged in protected speech; and
- Along with the city, discriminates against people with behavioral health disabilities when responding to calls for assistance.
Specific mention was made to illegal attacks on protestors and journalists.
It’s nice to see confirmation of what we’ve known: they aren’t just evil, they’re preying on the weak and disadvantaged.