DOJ Criticized by Louisiana Over Police Findings

The U.S. Justice Department has announced findings from a 'pattern and practice investigation' revealing that the Louisiana State Police (LSP) engage in unconstitutional practices, including excessive force and unjustified Taser usage, often escalating minor incidents and violating the Fourth Amendment. While the LSP has made some reforms, such as updating its use-of-force policy and creating a Force Investigation Unit, the DOJ concludes that further measures are necessary. This investigation began in 2022 and coincides with the decision not to charge officers involved in the 2019 death of Ronald Greene. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) is set to wind down its federal oversight, as a judge acknowledged significant improvements in transparency and accountability since a 2013 agreement following DOJ findings of racial bias and misconduct. Louisiana state officials, including Governor Jeff Landry and Attorney General Liz Murrill, have criticized the DOJ report as politically motivated, asserting support for the LSP. Ongoing efforts are still required to restore public trust fully.