The U.S. Justice Department and Louisville reached a consent decree to address constitutional violations by police after Breonna Taylor's fatal shooting and mistreatment of protesters.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke described it as "a new day for Louisville," emphasizing how police actions "harmed community members and undermined public trust."
A federal investigation initiated after Taylor's 2020 death uncovered patterns of racial discrimination, excessive force, and searches based on invalid warrants. Key requirements of the decree include revising use-of-force policies, ensuring constitutional traffic stops and searches, and improving responses to public demonstrations.
Mayor Craig Greenberg highlighted prior changes, such as banning "no-knock" warrants. Taylor's mother, Tamika Palmer, voiced skepticism, saying, "We have a history of putting things on paper and not moving the needle." She urged accountability to ensure progress.
Since Taylor's death, Louisville police underwent six leadership changes. Current Chief Paul Humphrey supported federal oversight, noting, "This has to be more than just words on a page. It is a promise to our officers and professional staff."
A Justice Department report from March 2023 concluded Louisville police engaged in racial discrimination and violated rights during protests. Findings align with broader civil rights issues across the nation. Unlike Louisville, Memphis resisted a consent decree, favoring internal reforms after Tyre Nichols' death.
This agreement represents the first finalized consent decree under the Biden administration, with similar investigations underway in 12 other agencies. However, future agreements face uncertainty as a Trump administration is expected to shift civil rights priorities.
Link: ABCNews
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