(LibertySociety.com) – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has released a report accusing the Mount Vernon Police Department (MVPD) in New York of systematically violating civil rights through practices that included illegal arrests, unconstitutional strip and cavity searches, and the excessive use of force. These findings come as part of a broader federal effort to examine misconduct within local law enforcement agencies.
The report highlights numerous troubling practices within the MVPD, including routine strip searches conducted on arrested individuals, as well as on those who were never formally charged with crimes. These searches were invasive, with individuals ordered to disrobe and undergo degrading procedures. One particularly egregious case involved two elderly women, aged 65 and 75, who were subjected to such searches despite officers fabricating evidence to justify their arrest. An internal review determined the accusations against the women were baseless, and officers involved faced minimal disciplinary actions, such as losing a few vacation days.
The DOJ’s investigation revealed widespread constitutional violations, including excessive use of force and arrests made without probable cause. Officers were found to have escalated minor interactions into violent encounters, often targeting individuals already restrained. The department also detained individuals for exercising their right to free speech, such as verbally criticizing police officers.
Another shocking instance cited in the report involved officers detaining and interrogating the mother of a shooting victim while her injured daughter was being rushed to the hospital. The daughter ultimately died, and officers could not provide any justification for holding the grieving mother.
The investigation also uncovered systemic issues within MVPD’s management, including financial mismanagement, insufficient training, and low salaries that have hindered the recruitment and retention of qualified officers. These factors contributed to the persistence of unconstitutional practices.
Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard acknowledged the report’s findings, pledging cooperation with the DOJ to address the issues. The city has already begun implementing reforms, including the termination of three police officers and two civilian employees following a 2021 investigation.
DOJ officials, including Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, emphasized the need for meaningful reform. The report outlines recommendations for preventing illegal searches, ensuring proper training, and promoting accountability within the department.
“Reforming police practices won’t happen overnight,” Clarke stated, “but it is essential to restore trust and ensure justice for all.” This investigation is one of 12 such probes into local police departments conducted by the DOJ over the past three years.
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