The hearing to gather public input on the proposed consent decree became a clash over the future of police departments, as Baltimore residents affected by police shootings and beatings forcefully pushed back against any delays. The consent decree follows a blistering Justice Department report that found widespread constitutional violations and discrimination in the Baltimore Police Department. In New Orleans, Smith said, the city tried to pull out of the consent decree, but the federal judge refused, noting the decree was for the residents. The team of civil rights lawyers who worked to negotiate the Baltimore consent decree were not present. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” said Baltimore resident Alecia Dean.

Source: Washington Post April 06, 2017 16:59 UTC