Minneapolis Approves Federal Consent Decree for Police Reform Under Court Supervision

Jan 6, 2025, 10:45 PM

The Minneapolis City Council has approved a federal consent decree with the U.S. Department of Justice to implement comprehensive reforms within the Minneapolis Police Department. This agreement, prompted by the 2020 murder of George Floyd and a subsequent Justice Department investigation, mandates changes to police training, use-of-force policies, and overall conduct. The investigation, which concluded in 2023, revealed systemic racial discrimination, excessive use of force, and violations of constitutional rights by the department. The consent decree, outlined in a 171-page agreement, will place the department under long-term court supervision and will be overseen by an independent monitor, pending judicial approval. The reforms aim to ensure constitutional policing, rebuild public trust, and eliminate discriminatory practices. The agreement builds on changes already implemented by the department and follows a similar state-level consent decree established in 2023. The council's unanimous 12-0 vote reflects a commitment to addressing longstanding issues and promoting accountability.