Hennepin County Judge Approves Court-Enforceable Settlement between City of Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights

Originally posted July 16th, 2023

On Thursday, Hennepin County District Court Judge Karen Janisch approved a court-enforceable settlement between the City of Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

The agreement is the result of a multi-year investigation into the police department following the 2020 police murder of George Floyd.

During the investigation, Minneapolis Police were found to take part in race-based policing and a pattern of discrimination.

The settlement, which will become a consent decree upon completion, includes reforms around policing tactics such as use of force, traffic stop procedures, and general training.

“The Parties recognize that policing free of discrimination is central to public safety and to build community trust and legitimacy,” the 144 page settlement reads. “This Agreement is designed to facilitate an improved relationship between MPD and community members through increased transparency and public input.”

However, community advocates are not convinced. Many highlight the department’s poor track record when it comes to accountability and equity. They worry the agreement isn’t enough to keep communities of color safe while interacting with Minneapolis police.

What do you think? Is this enough?