Summary

On March 31, 2023, the Minneapolis City Council and Mayor Jacob Frey approved terms of a court-enforceable settlement agreement. It resolves the Minnesota Department of Human Rights’ (MDHR) probable cause determination that the City of Minneapolis and Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) have engaged in a pattern or practice of race discrimination in violation of the Minnesota Human Rights Act.

• The MDHR investigation launched June 1, 2020, one week after former Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin murdered George Floyd.
• On April 27, 2022, MDHR announced its findings.
• On July 21, 2022, the City and MDHR agreed to a joint statement of principles related to the MDHR findings. 

See MDHR investigation timeline

Read the joint statement of principles

Road map for change

The settlement agreement outlines a framework for:

• Lawful, non-discriminatory policing
• Better support for public safety in Minneapolis

The agreement:

• Includes many requirements that are already consistent with MPD policy
• Is a broad and extensive road map for positive change in the department
• Covers major reforms that will take time to accomplish

City and MPD commitment

The settlement agreement shows the City’s and MPD’s commitment to:

• Have MPD operate lawfully and free from discrimination
• Ensure that MPD officers recognize people’s humanity, dignity and civil rights
• Take necessary measures to build trust between MPD and all communities in the City
• Invest in the important work ahead

Effective date

A Hennepin County District Court judge approved the settlement agreement on July 13, 2023.

Read the settlement agreement

Before City approval of court-enforceable settlement agreement

• The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) investigated the City of Minneapolis and the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD).
• The City and MDHR agreed to a temporary restraining order requiring several changes to MPD policy.
• MDHR and the City agreed to a joint Statement of Principles and agreed to negotiate a court-enforceable settlement agreement.

On March 31, 2023, the Minneapolis City Council and Mayor Jacob Frey approved the court-enforceable settlement agreement.

After City approval of court-enforceable settlement agreement

MDHR filed the following in the Hennepin County District Court:

• Complaint alleging racial discrimination
• Settlement agreement
• City and MDHR joint motion asking the court to approve the settlement agreement

The agreement will improve the MPD’s relationship with the community through more:

• Transparency and public input
• Oversight and accountability
• Support for officers