Justice Department Investigation into Memphis Police Violations
The U.S. Department of Justice found that Memphis police regularly violate the civil rights of citizens, engaging in unconstitutional tactics like excessive use of force and discriminating against Black residents. Memphis city refuses federal oversight of its police force.
Key Points
- Systemic problems in Memphis policing tactics harming and demeaning people
- Unlawful stop, search, and arrest practices, discriminatory policies
- Memphis police unnecessarily escalate encounters with children
- Memphis not ready to negotiate police reforms or consent decree with Justice Department
Pros
- Transparency in revealing systemic problems in Memphis policing
- Potential for significant reform and investment in change
Cons
- City of Memphis refusing federal oversight
- Harmful and discriminatory practices by Memphis police