City Responds to George Floyd’s Murder with Historic Consent Decree
The Minneapolis City Council unanimously approved a federal consent decree on Monday, marking a significant step toward overhauling police training and use-of-force policies. The move comes in the wake of George Floyd’s 2020 murder, which spurred a national reckoning with police brutality and systemic racism.
The 171-page agreement, filed in federal court shortly after the council’s 12-0 vote, enshrines reforms designed to prioritize the sanctity of life and ensure officers treat all individuals with dignity and professionalism. It prohibits race, gender, or ethnicity from influencing decisions on the use of force.
Federal Oversight and Accountability
Under the consent decree, the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) will operate under long-term federal court supervision, overseen by an independent monitor. The agreement builds on reforms the city has already initiated and aligns with a scathing 2023 Department of Justice (DOJ) report that found systematic racial discrimination and unconstitutional practices within the MPD.
The DOJ’s investigation revealed a troubling history of excessive and unjustified use of force, violations of constitutional rights, and the unsafe treatment of individuals in custody.
“George Floyd’s death was a tragedy that became a galvanizing force for reform,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ’s Civil Rights Division. “This consent decree provides a roadmap to help Minneapolis heal and rebuild trust between law enforcement and the community.”
Local and Federal Cooperation
The agreement requires court approval, with officials pushing for a swift process before the Jan. 20 inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, whose previous administration was critical of such agreements. Clarke noted that implementing the decree would require commitment from both local leaders and federal partners.
Council President Elliott Payne emphasized the importance of community collaboration in achieving meaningful reform. “We’re just beginning this journey,” Payne said. “Our success will depend on everyone working together on one of the most critical issues facing our city.”
Historical Context and Nationwide Impact
The federal consent decree follows a similar state-level agreement between Minneapolis and the Minnesota Department of Human Rights, finalized in 2023. The state’s investigation revealed a decade-long pattern of racial discrimination by the city’s police force.
Minneapolis is now set to become the first U.S. city to operate under both federal and state consent decrees. Police Chief Brian O’Hara, hired in 2022 for his experience with similar reforms in Newark, New Jersey, expressed confidence in the process.
“We’re not just going to comply; we’re going to exceed expectations,” O’Hara said. “We will make Minneapolis a city where everyone feels safe and supported by the police.”
Broader Push for Police Reform
Minneapolis joins cities like Seattle, Baltimore, and New Orleans in adopting consent decrees to address police misconduct. Currently, the DOJ oversees 16 such agreements nationwide.
Consent decrees often take years and substantial resources to implement, but Clarke emphasized their effectiveness in creating safer, more accountable police forces.
Commitment to Constitutional Policing
Mayor Jacob Frey urged MPD officers to embrace the changes and demonstrate the effectiveness of constitutional policing.
“You have the ability, the obligation, and the responsibility to set the tone,” Frey said. “Show the country—and the world—what good policing looks like.”
With the trial for court approval pending, the city’s leaders remain hopeful that these reforms will create a safer, more equitable Minneapolis for all residents.
