Missoula Police Department (Montana)

Summary:

In May 2012, the Civil Rights Division of the US Department of Justice (the Division) opened an investigation into the Missoula County Attorney’s Office (MCAO), Missoula Police Department (MPD), and University of Montana Office of Public Safety (UM-OPS) in Missoula, Montana, focused on gender bias in the handling of sexual assault complaints. In May 2013, the Division issued findings letters to the MPD and UM-OPS identifying a pattern or practice of failing adequately respond to and investigate allegations of sexual assault against women. In February 2014, the Division issued a separate findings letter to the Missoula County Attorney’s Office, identifying a pattern or practice of failing to ensure unbiased and effective investigation and prosecution of reports of sexual assault by women. In May 2013, the Division entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the MPD and UM-OPS, including appointment of an independent monitor. In June 2014, the Division entered into a separate “memorandum of understanding” (MOU) with MCAO. In May 2015, the Division terminated the MOA with the MPD and in July 2015 the Division terminated the MOA with UM-OPS.

Fast Facts

Case Status: Closed
City and State: Missoula, Montana
Year Initiated: 2012
Year Closed: 2016