The Minneapolis City Council approved a landmark agreement on Monday to revamp police training and use-of-force policies, signaling a significant step toward reform following the murder of George Floyd in 2020.
The 171-page consent decree, filed in federal court after a unanimous 12-0 vote, outlines transformative measures aimed at promoting accountability, eliminating racial bias, and safeguarding human dignity in policing.
Among its key provisions, the agreement requires officers to prioritize the sanctity of human life, exercise professionalism, and ensure decisions regarding force are free from discrimination based on race, gender, or ethnicity.
This court-supervised agreement builds on reforms initiated by the Minneapolis Police Department after Floyd’s death, which sparked nationwide protests and intensified scrutiny of police practices.
READ ALSO: Judge approves testing of George Floyd’s tissue as convicted officer seeks new trial
It follows a Department of Justice investigation that uncovered systemic racial discrimination, excessive use of force, and repeated violations of constitutional rights within the department, according to AP’s report.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the significance of the decree, calling it “a roadmap for reform” that will help rebuild trust between law enforcement and the community. An independent monitor will oversee the implementation of the changes, pending approval by a federal judge.
Mayor Jacob Frey and Police Chief Brian O’Hara expressed their commitment to exceeding the agreement’s expectations, with O’Hara pledging to make Minneapolis a model for constitutional policing. Community leaders and council members, while cautiously optimistic, stressed the importance of sustained local accountability to ensure meaningful progress.
READ ALSO: Justice Department and Louisville reach agreement following Breonna Taylor investigation
