Photo: Getty Images
The Justice Department has launched a review into the Memphis Police Department in the wake of Tyre Nichols' death.
On Wednesday (March 8), the DOJ announced that it would be reviewing the department's use-of-force and de-escalation policies after Nichols, a 29-year-old Black man, died days after being brutally beaten during a January 7 traffic stop in Memphis.
Federal officials will also conduct a separate review of specialized police units nationwide, like the now-deactivated SCORPION Unit whose members fatally beat Nichols.
At the end of the DOJ's review, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) will release a public report and work to create a guide for departments across the country on how to properly manage and use specialized police units.
"In the wake of Tyre Nichols's tragic death, the Justice Department has heard from police chiefs across the country who are assessing the use of specialized units and, where used, appropriate management, oversight, and accountability for such units," Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta said in a statement.
Gupta continued, "The COPS Office guide on specialized units will be a critical resource for law enforcement, mayors and community members committed to effective community policing that respects the dignity of community members and keeps people safe."
The DOJ announcement comes after Memphis officials announced Tuesday (March 7) that a seventh officer was fired in connection to Nichols' brutal beating and death. Roughly 20 additional hours of video and audio surrounding the traffic stop are set to be released on Wednesday.
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