Detroit Evening Report: MSP shares results of independent report on discriminatory policing
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Michigan State Police say a review by an independent consulting firm found racial disparities in its traffic enforcement do not appear to be caused by discriminatory policing practices.
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MSP hired the firm CNA to conduct an 18-month evaluation as part of a long-term plan the department announced in January 2022 to address racial disparities in its traffic stops. CNA used document reviews, targeted interviews, focus groups, ride-alongs and quantitative data analysis to reach the findings and associated recommendations included in the 54-page report.
The report found that MSP has strong polices and positive programs in place to deter discriminatory policing, as well as some policies and programs that require greater attention and improvement, according to CNA.
“As a law enforcement agency, we are committed to fair and equitable policing,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the MSP, in a statement. “Although previous research conducted by the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University has identified the presence of racial and ethnic disparities in MSP traffic stops, the reasons for such disparities remain unknown.”
Grady said discriminatory behavior is not an acceptable practice within this agency and anyone engaging in it will be addressed through training, discipline or termination, dependent on the circumstances.
The full report can be found here.
Other headlines for Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024:
- The City of Dearborn has placed 300 new bait traps to its sewer system in an effort to root out city rats.
- January is Radon Awareness Month and the Detroit Health Department is offering residents free radon tests.
- Paradise Natural Foods is hosting a screening of the Netflix documentary “You Are What You Eat” (episode three) from 3 to 5:30 p.m. this Saturday.
- Parker Avenue Knits is celebrating Sunday’s Lion’s game with a Watch & Stitch Party, offering half-time discounts on fiber products.
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