Justice Department Identifies Excessive Force Pattern in Louisiana State Police

A recent report from the U.S. Justice Department revealed that the Louisiana State Police (LSP) has engaged in a long-standing pattern of excessive force during arrests and pursuits, including unjustified use of stun guns. This investigation, initiated in 2022 following the 2019 death of Ronald Greene, highlighted systemic failures in supervision and chronic underreporting of force. The findings indicate that troopers often escalate minor incidents and use excessive force on individuals who pose no threat, violating the Fourth Amendment. Following the report's release, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry defended the State Police, asserting that the findings undermine their reputation and efforts to serve the public. The report comes shortly after federal prosecutors declined to charge officers involved in Greene's death, raising further concerns about accountability within the agency. The Justice Department's investigation also noted that it did not address claims of racially discriminatory policing within LSP.