The Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, 42 U.S.C. § 14141 (re-codified at 34 U.S.C § 12601), allows the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division to review the practices of law enforcement agencies that may be violating people’s federal rights. If a law enforcement agency receives federal funding, DOJ can also use the anti-discrimination provisions of the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which forbid discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex or national origin by agencies receiving federal funds.
The issues addressed in these cases and investigations can include use of excessive force; unlawful stops, searches, or arrests; and discriminatory policing.
In the coming months, the Knowledge Lab will update this page with interactive charts, maps, and analysis related to DOJ’s enforcement actions.