DOJ Report Censures Worcester Police Department

The release of a Department of Justice (DOJ) report has caused significant division in Worcester, Massachusetts, over allegations against the local police department. The report, stemming from a two-year investigation, accuses the Worcester Police Department of engaging in racially biased policing, using excessive force, and committing sexual misconduct with women involved in the sex trade. This has led to heated debates at city council meetings, with some residents and officials defending the police, while others demand accountability and reforms. The police union has criticized the report for its reliance on anonymous sources and lack of transparency. In response, the city has initiated a hotline for reporting police misconduct and plans to hold a community meeting to discuss the report's findings and potential reforms. The DOJ has proposed 19 remedial measures to address the issues highlighted in the report.