Chicago police showed racial bias and a “pattern” of excessive use of force, the US Justice Department has found.
Justice Department officials on Friday released a scathing report after a year-long probe into the police force found serious civil rights abuses.
The 2015 inquiry was launched after fallout over the release of dashcam video showing a white officer shooting black teenager Laquan McDonald.
The city agreed to enter negotiations on a consent decree to guide reform.
US Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced Chicago would work with the Department of Justice on a consent decree, which would commit the city to sweeping reforms within the police department to restore public trust.
The 13-month investigation found improper training as one of the main causes of civil rights violations.
It also concluded the city lacked community policing and a failure to provide officers with the support they need.
“One of my highest priorities as attorney general has been to ensure that every American enjoys police protection that is lawful, responsive, and transparent,” US Attorney General Loretta Lynch said at a news conference.
“Sadly, our thorough investigation into the Chicago Police Department found that far too many residents of this proud city have not received that kind of policing.
“The resulting deficit in trust and accountability is not just bad for residents – it’s also bad for dedicated police officers trying to do their jobs safely and effectively.”
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