Monday, December 19, 2011

Seattle Police Issues in US DOJ Report

An 11-month investigation by the Department of Justice into the Seattle Police Department has uncovered widespread use of excessive force and constitutional violations, especially against people of color, by officers at the Seattle Police Department. The 67 page report details a number of issues with the Seattle Police Department with interesting findings, for example:
"Use of Force – We find that SPD engages in a pattern or practice of using unnecessary or excessive force, in violation of the Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution and Section 14141. Deficiencies in SPD’s training, policies, and oversight with regard to the use of force contribute to the constitutional violations."

Good to know if litigating in Seattle. Full coverage in the Seattle Times as well including the Seattle Police's response today.

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