The Justice Department has accused the Memphis Police Department of using excessive force and engaging in discriminatory practices against Black residents, urging the city to implement sweeping changes.
The findings were released Wednesday after a federal investigation initiated in July 2023, following the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols, a Black motorist, by Memphis officers.
The report details numerous violations, including unlawful stops, searches, and arrests, as well as discriminatory treatment of people with behavioral health disabilities, Reuters reports. Additionally, it highlighted troubling incidents involving children, who reportedly endured “aggressive and frightening encounters with officers.”
In response to inquiries about the investigation, a Memphis Police Department spokesperson referred reporters to City Hall. A City Hall representative announced plans for a press conference on Thursday to address the findings.
Memphis City Attorney Tannera Gibson responded to the Justice Department in a letter Wednesday, saying the city was not ready to begin negotiations on reforms. Gibson argued that the investigation’s 17-month timeline was unusually short compared to the two to three years typically required for similar reviews, suggesting the conclusions may have been rushed.
“The city cannot currently commit to working toward or entering into a consent decree,” Gibson wrote, referring to a legally binding agreement that often mandates comprehensive police reforms under federal oversight.
The federal investigation comes amid ongoing legal fallout from Nichols’ death. In October, a jury convicted three former Memphis officers of witness tampering in connection to their trial but cleared them of more severe charges that carried potential life sentences. Two other officers previously pleaded guilty to federal charges and testified against their former colleagues. Meanwhile, three officers still face a state murder trial in Tennessee scheduled for April.
While the Justice Department acknowledged that Memphis police have implemented some reforms, it emphasized the need for additional measures to address systemic issues.
“The people of Memphis deserve a police department and city that protects their civil and constitutional rights, garners trust, and keeps them safe,” said Kristen Clarke, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division.
Federal officials commended the city and police department for their cooperation during the investigation and stated they plan to seek community input on remedies to address the report’s findings.
“We will be conducting outreach to members of the Memphis community for input on remedies to address the department’s findings,” the Justice Department said in its statement.
