Springfield Police to Undergo "Reform..."

"Springfield, DOJ agree to ‘blueprint for reform' of police force

By: State House News Service April 14, 2022

The U.S. Department of Justice and the city of Springfield plan to enter into a consent decree that will resolve the federal government's claim that the Springfield Police Department's narcotics bureau engaged in a pattern or practice of excessive force that deprived individuals of their constitutional rights.

Rollins said the agreement “addresses policy, training and cultural issues” and “provides a blueprint for reform.”

Clarke said Springfield and the DOJ will jointly recommend a monitor that will “serve as the court's eyes and ears during the reform process” and file public reports every six months. She said the 69-page consent decree includes a requirement that officers will report all uses of force, including punches and kicks, and creates a new investigation team to evaluate the most serious uses of force.

'Real and lasting change does not happen fast,' Clarke said. 'Institutional reform is complex and requires diligence and persistence. Implementing the requirements of this decree in a way that is durable will take years, not months.'”

Note the settlement agreement requires approval from a U.S. District Court judge. Given the level of thuggery which brought on this investigation, reform is long overdue.