Minneapolis Agrees to Police Reform Consent Decree

The Minneapolis City Council unanimously approved a consent decree with the U.S. Department of Justice aimed at reforming the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) following years of systemic misconduct, highlighted by the murder of George Floyd in 2020. This agreement mandates that police officers prioritize the sanctity of human life and prohibits the use of race, gender, or ethnicity in force decisions. The DOJ's investigation revealed a pattern of excessive and unjustified use of force, particularly against Black and Native American communities, prompting a call for accountability and change. The consent decree, which requires federal court approval, will establish independent monitoring of the police department's compliance with the reforms. Additionally, Minneapolis is set to be the first U.S. city to operate under both state and federal consent decrees, enhancing oversight of its police practices. Advocates view this as a significant step toward dismantling entrenched discrimination within the MPD and ensuring better policing for all citizens.