Justice Department settles with Mississippi city over police civil rights violations

The United States Department of Justice reached a settlement on October 16 with the city of Lexington, Mississippi, after an investigation showed that its police department engaged in unlawful practices, UPI reported. The agreement requires the city to implement systemic changes to its local law enforcement policies. [1]

According to UPI, the court settlement mandates revised police department policies regarding arrests, searches, and the use of force. City officials must also update procedures governing fines, fees, and bail. [1]

The settlement follows a federal investigation that culminated in a September 2024 report, UPI reported. That report found that the Lexington Police Department routinely engaged in a pattern of violating the constitutional rights of local residents. [1]

Under the terms of the new agreement, both the city government and the police force are obligated to formally revise their operational policies to ensure future compliance with civil rights laws, UPI reported. [1]