www.youtube.com – 16 WAPT News Jackson – 2024-09-27 08:14:18

SUMMARY: The U.S. Justice Department’s investigation into the Lexington, Mississippi Police Department revealed a pattern of unlawful conduct, particularly targeting the town’s Black majority, who comprise 75% of the population. Authorities found that excessive force was used, even for minor offenses like swearing in public. People unable to pay excessive fines remain incarcerated, effectively punishing poverty. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke highlighted the violation of First Amendment rights. The department reportedly relies on fines for petty offenses for funding. Despite some modest improvements, the DOJ emphasizes the need for significant reform to address these concerning practices.

An investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice found that the Lexington police use excessive force, unlawfully jail people and discriminate against Black people.

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