US Department of Justice Orders Investigation of Minneapolis Police Department

The United States Attorney General Announced a probe of the Minneapolis Police Department.

Less than 24 hours after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin's conviction in the death of George Floyd, the Department of Justice announced that the Minneapolis Police Department will be investigated. The announcement was made by United States Attorney General, Merrick Garland. So, what is going to happen with this probe of the police department?

Attorney General Garland said that there will be a civil investigation to determine if the Minneapolis Police Department practices "unconstitutional or unlawful policing."

Attorney General Garland said that there will be a civil investigation to determine if the Minneapolis Police Department practices "unconstitutional or unlawful policing." The investigative team will consist of experienced Civil Rights attorneys from the Justice Department and attorneys from the US Attorney's office of Minnesota. These investigators will take an extensive look at both the Minneapolis Police Department and the community and people it serves.

Garland stated that the investigation will include a comprehensive review of policies, training, supervision, and use of force. This investigation will work to determine treatment of people during protests, discriminatory conduct, and treatment of those with behavioral health disabilities. The Attorney General also said the investigators are reaching out to members of the public and community groups to learn about their experiences with the Minneapolis Police Department.

If it is determined that the MPD uses unconstitutional or unlawful practices, the Attorney General stated that the public will be notified of the report.

If it is determined that the MPD uses unconstitutional or unlawful practices, the Attorney General stated that the public will be notified of the report. If needed, the Justice Department could also bring a civil lawsuit to the police department to make policy changes. And there would be a settlement agreement to ensure that "prompt and effective action is taken to align policing practices with the law."