Minneapolis Approves Police Reform Consent Decree with Federal Government Following George Floyd's Murder

Jan 6, 2025, 08:50 PM

The Minneapolis City Council has approved a comprehensive agreement with the federal government to implement major reforms within the city's police department in response to the murder of George Floyd. The agreement, known as a consent decree, mandates changes to be overseen by an independent monitor under long-term court supervision and requires court approval. The reforms stem from a Department of Justice report issued in June 2023, which criticized the Minneapolis police for systemic discrimination against racial minorities, violations of constitutional rights, and disregard for the safety of individuals in custody, including the use of excessive force and unjustified deadly force. The council's unanimous 12-0 vote on Monday follows extensive negotiations and reflects a commitment to address longstanding issues of police conduct that were highlighted by Floyd's death in 2020, which sparked a national outcry against police brutality and racism.