Federal Investigation into Minneapolis Police Department Expands to Entire Department, Not Just George Floyd Case

As part of a sweeping new investigation, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced that the Department of Justice will examine whether a pattern of discrimination and excessive use of force exists within the Minneapolis Police Department, extending beyond the high-profile George Floyd case. This move marks a significant shift in focus, with the investigation set to scrutinize the department's policies, training, supervision, and use-of-force investigations. The probe is expected to take a year or longer to complete, amid renewed pressure on lawmakers to address police reform.

Key Takeaways:

• The U.S. Department of Justice is conducting a comprehensive review of the Minneapolis Police Department's policies, training, supervision, and use-of-force investigations.
• The investigation will focus on whether the department engages in unlawful policing, including discrimination.
• The Minneapolis Police Department has a reputation for being "troubled," with incidents like the George Floyd case allowed to persist due to a culture that supports or allows them.
• Pattern or practice investigations of police departments were largely put on hold during the Trump administration, with just one conducted compared to 25 during the Obama administration.
• Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison believes that the motive behind the actions of Derek Chauvin was ego and pride, rather than fear of the crowd.
• Ellison pointed out that George Floyd was treated poorly because he was suffering from anxiety and claustrophobia, and that his emotional reaction led to the police officers' actions.
• The prosecutorial team that led the case against Derek Chauvin has called the verdict a step towards justice.

Statistics:

• The investigation is expected to take a year or longer to complete.
• 25 pattern or practice investigations of police departments were conducted during the Obama administration, compared to 1 during the Trump administration.
• The George Floyd case led to the Minneapolis Police Department's Third Precinct becoming a focal point of controversy, with the precinct facing a reputation for difficulty.
• 6-foot-4 George Floyd was jammed into a very tight space in a car, leading to his emotional reaction and eventual death.

Sources:

• CBS News
• U.S. Department of Justice
• 60 Minutes
• Minnesota Attorney General's Office