The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced an investigation into the city of Memphis and its police department over allegations of discriminatory policing and civil rights violations against residents. The announcement came during a news conference on Thursday, where Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ's civil rights division stated that there were grounds to open the investigation based on multiple incidents reported by residents and community members.
The decision to launch the inquiry was not centered on a single event but rather on a series of interviews and reports of misconduct involving police officers. The investigation comes nearly seven months after the death of Tyre Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, who was fatally beaten by Memphis police during a routine traffic stop. Community members have accused officers of using excessive force when faced with behavior they deemed insolent.
Clarke emphasized that the allegations were sufficient to warrant a full investigation into the police department. The DOJ's investigation will focus on three main issues: whether the police department engages in unlawful stops, searches, and arrests, whether there is a pattern or practice of using excessive force, and whether there are racially discriminatory policing patterns towards Black residents.
Nichols' death, ruled a homicide by the Shelby County medical examiner, has sparked outrage and calls for justice. Five former Memphis police officers have been indicted in the case, and Nichols' family has filed a lawsuit against the city. The DOJ's civil investigation is separate from the ongoing criminal and civil cases.
Attorney General Merrick Garland expressed condolences for Nichols' death and stated that the DOJ is committed to conducting a thorough review in cooperation with the community. Garland emphasized the importance of listening to residents and officers alike, stating that investigators would meet with police officers and commanders and participate in ride-alongs to understand the challenges they face.
The Memphis investigation marks the ninth pattern or practice inquiry into law enforcement initiated by the DOJ during the Biden administration. The department aims to address allegations of discriminatory policing and ensure that the residents of Memphis receive the justice they deserve.
The Memphis Police Department has stated its intention to cooperate with the DOJ's investigation, and the department's use-of-force and de-escalation policies will be examined as part of the inquiry. This is an ongoing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
