Russell Fujisawa has been named director of the City of Minneapolis Civil Rights Department’s Office of Police Conduct Review (OPCR). Fujisawa takes over for Carolina Amini who has been acting division director since March. Fujisawa is charged with leading the division that investigates allegations of police misconduct.

“I am deeply honored to step into this role and excited to work with staff and community to strengthen the trust, accountability, and transparency of policing in Minneapolis,” said Director Fujisawa. “We have an incredible opportunity to drive meaningful change that reflects our City's shared values and commitment to police reform.” 

Prior to joining the City, Fujisawa was a community partnerships manager at M Health Fairview where he led projects that improved health outcomes, working with community organizations. Before that, Fujisawa helped implement consent decree-mandated reforms as part of the Chicago Police Department's Consent Decree Implementation Unit. The City of Minneapolis is currently under a court enforceable settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR).  

“Russell is a passionate public policy pro, and we’re pleased to have him directing this important work,” said Michelle Phillips, Director of the Civil Rights Department, where the OPCR sits in the City’s structure. “We are grateful to Carolina for stepping in on a temporary basis and thank her for a job well done. Our office is committed to strengthening the community partnerships that are crucial to this work. We know Russell will lead with integrity and an open mind.”

The OPCR’s mission is to promote adherence to the highest standard of police conduct and foster mutual respect between the Minneapolis Police Department and the community it serves.

The OPCR is also looking to expand the team with a policy and research coordinator. Read more about this position on the City’s website.