The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched a comprehensive civil investigation into the Anchorage Police Department in Alaska, signalling a major federal review of policing practices in the state's largest city.
Announced by Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ's Civil Rights Division, the probe will scrutinise whether the department engages in a pattern or practice of unconstitutional policing. This includes excessive use of force, discriminatory conduct, and violations of Americans' civil rights.
Scope of the Investigation
The investigation will focus on several critical areas of police work:
- Use of Force: Examining policies and incidents involving deadly and non-deadly force.
- Behavioural Health Crises: Assessing how officers respond to individuals experiencing mental health or substance abuse issues.
- Policing of Vulnerable Groups: Reviewing interactions with people of colour, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness.
- First Amendment Rights: Investigating whether the department respects rights to free speech and assembly.
This investigation falls under the pattern-or-practice authority granted to the DOJ by the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994.
Context and Cooperation
The announcement follows a 30-day review period where the DOJ considered numerous reports from community members and organisations alleging systemic issues within the department. Anchorage Mayor Dave Bronson and Police Chief Michael Kerle have stated their intention to cooperate fully with the federal investigation.
This probe is part of a broader Biden administration effort to address police reform at the federal level, following similar investigations launched in Minneapolis, Louisville, and Phoenix.
The outcome could lead to a court-enforceable agreement mandating specific reforms within the Anchorage Police Department, a outcome seen in other cities that have undergone similar scrutiny.
