Minneapolis Police Department Implements Sweeping Reforms in the Aftermath of George Floyd’s Murder
In the wake of George Floyd’s tragic murder, the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) is undergoing significant reforms required by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR). These reforms aim to address the pattern of discriminatory policing and the violation of citizens’ constitutional rights within the department. The MPD is committed to rebuilding trust with the community and ensuring police accountability.
To oversee the implementation of these reforms, the MPD has established a new Implementation Unit. Currently in the process of being fully staffed, the unit will consist of three sworn officers and approximately two dozen civilian analysts. Their role will be to ensure compliance with the reform efforts alongside an independent evaluator. Additionally, the MPD is actively seeking feedback on various department policies, including the use of force, through the city’s website and community engagement sessions.
Both state and federal investigations concluded that the MPD’s deficient training and lax supervisory review contributed to discriminatory policing practices. The MDHR settlement agreement, approved by the City Council, provides a roadmap for the MPD to address misconduct by restricting aggressive tactics, strengthening police accountability systems, and prioritizing the well-being of officers.
The legal agreement is expected to last at least four years, and there is anticipated consent decree from the U.S. Department of Justice that could span up to a decade. The process of implementing these dual reform efforts is estimated to cost $16 million in 2024 and $11 million in 2025. Mayor Jacob Frey acknowledges that change comes at a cost.
In an effort to learn from other police departments that have navigated federal monitorships, Cmdr. Yolanda Wilks and her team have visited Baltimore, Chicago, and Albuquerque. One key finding was the importance of buy-in from both residents and sworn officers, which often took time to develop. For example, civilian analysts in Albuquerque played a crucial role in analyzing crime data to inform decisions on dispatching mental health crisis responders instead of armed officers.
Cmdr. Wilks, one of the few Black women in the department, is passionate about shaping the future of policing in Minneapolis. She candidly shared the emotional toll of the events in 2020, including Floyd’s killing, which made her question her career choice. Despite contemplating resignation, she ultimately decided to stay to advocate for the community members and crime victims who encouraged her to continue.
In a recent community engagement session held in downtown Minneapolis, approximately 100 residents gathered to provide input on improving oversight and department policies. Police Chief Brian O’Hara presented the three levels of force outlined in the MPD’s policy and emphasized the agency’s commitment to the sanctity of life. Attendees voiced concerns about disproportionately using force against people of color and questioned how training can address implicit bias. O’Hara assured the audience that the reform effort aims to develop tools that minimize the use of force unless absolutely necessary.
Acknowledging the feedback received, the MPD made adjustments to accommodate concerns. At a subsequent meeting, binders containing the current 72-page Use of Force policy were made available for public viewing, and the online feedback form was expanded from 200 to 500 words.
The MPD remains dedicated to fostering transparency, improving discipline procedures, and eliminating misconduct within its ranks. Future community engagement sessions will focus on policies related to stops, searches, arrests, and non-discriminatory policing.
The road to reform and rebuilding trust will not be easy, but the MPD is committed to taking the necessary steps. As Minneapolis strives to reinvent its police department, it joins a growing list of cities across the United States working towards meaningful change in an effort to create a more just and equitable society.
