Feds To Investigate Minneapolis Police Department

MINNEAPOLIS — The United States Department of Justice will investigate the Minneapolis Police Department to learn if there is a pattern of illegal behavior, U.S. Attorney Merrick Garland announced Wednesday.

"The investigation I am announcing today will assess whether the Minneapolis Police Department engages in a pattern or practice of using excessive force, including during protests," Garland said. The investigation will also focus on if the department engages in discriminatory practices.

"Yesterday’s verdict in the state criminal trial does not address potentially systemic policing issues in Minneapolis."

Reacting to the announcement, the Minneapolis City Council said it will "fully support the Department of Justice investigation of the Minneapolis Police Department."

"The City Council’s oversight of the Minneapolis Police Department has been historically constrained by the City Charter and state law and we welcome new tools to pursue transformational, structural changes to how the City provides for public safety. We look forward to doing this critical work with every tool available," lawmakers said.

The announcement comes hours after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was convicted of murder in the death of George Floyd.

Chauvin, 45, was convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter in Floyd's death on Memorial Day 2020. He is the second Minneapolis officer to be convicted of murder.

Also read: 'We Are Able To Breathe Again': Floyd Family Reacts To Verdict

Former Minneapolis police officer Mohamed Noor was convicted of murder in the 2017 deadly shooting of Justine Ruszczyk Damond outside her south Minneapolis home.

After the verdict was read Wednesday, Chauvin was immediately taken out of the courtroom in handcuffs as his defense attorney, Eric Nelson, watched. Chauvin's bail was revoked and he was taken into the custody of the Hennepin County sheriff.

The verdict — which was reached in about 10 hours — was read Tuesday afternoon. Chauvin's sentencing hearing will take place in eight weeks.

Chauvin faces a max of 75 years in prison under Minnesota law.