The East Haven Police Department has been rocked by allegations of racist misconduct and excessive force, with the Justice Department announcing a proposed agreement to resolve the issue.
The agreement, reached after a civil investigation, alleges that the East Haven Police Department engaged in a pattern or practice of unlawful discrimination against Latinos on account of their race, color or national origin.
The proposed agreement also addresses allegations of excessive force, unconstitutional searches and seizures, and retaliation against persons who witnessed police misconduct or criticized the department’s practices.
The agreement provides for comprehensive reforms in seven core areas, including biased-free policing, use of force, searches and seizures, and more.
“We are pleased that Mayor Maturo has made a clear commitment to rebuild the East Haven Police Department by agreeing to enter into a court-enforceable agreement that will result in constitutional and effective policing for all persons who live, work and travel in East Haven,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division.
The proposed agreement is a major step towards rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the community, but it remains to be seen whether the East Haven Police Department will follow through on the reforms.
“There is no place for invidious discrimination by law enforcement officers, and today’s commitment from the mayor signals a new day for the East Haven Police Department,” said David B. Fein, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut.
The agreement will be filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut for approval once it is fully executed by the town.
The seven core areas of reform include:
Biased-free policing, including measures on mandatory training, collection and analysis of data on police encounters, development of a meaningful language access plan, notification to consulates when foreign nationals are detained, and steps to promote biased-free policing in EHPD’s hiring, promotion, and performance assessment processes.
Use of force, including the development of current policies on use of force and measures that provide for comprehensive training, consistent force reporting, and thorough force reviews and investigations by supervisors and the internal affairs officer.
Searches and seizures, including the development of up-to-date policies and measures on applying for search warrants, documenting consent searches, notifying supervisors of felony arrests and other “contempt-of-cop” situations, inspecting detainees for injuries, and preserving individuals’ First Amendment rights to observe and record police activity.
Retaliation against persons who witnessed police misconduct or criticized the department’s practices, including measures to prevent retaliation and ensure a safe and respectful work environment.
The proposed agreement marks a significant step towards holding law enforcement accountable for their actions and rebuilding trust between law enforcement and the community.
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