A broad civil rights investigation into the conduct of Ferguson, Missouri, police over the past several years reportedly could begin this week. The probe is in addition to a federal review of the shooting of unarmed teen Michael Brown by a Ferguson police officer.
Protesters march in front of the White House as they call for a thorough investigation of the shooting death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri.
Larry Downing / Reuters
Attorney General Eric Holder could announce the new, broader civil rights investigation as early as Thursday afternoon, the Post reported.
The investigation would be in addition to an existing federal review of Ferguson police Officer Darren Wilson's fatal shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown. Authorities have claimed that Wilson acted in self defense on Aug. 9 when he shot Brown, who was unarmed. Witnesses said Brown was surrendering, prompting days of demonstrations that sometimes turned violent as protesters shouted, "Hands up, don't shoot."
The new investigation will attempt to uncover if a pattern of civil rights violations exists in Ferguson and neighboring areas, the Post reported. Images of the militarized police response to protests spread around the world. A number of officers were accused of excessively using force, including falsely arresting peaceful protesters, battery and assault. Several journalists were also arrested while they were covering the protests.
A local grand jury is also continuing to hear evidence on whether Wilson should face charges for Brown's death.
LINK: Eighty Years of Fergusons
LINK: Live Updates: Crisis In Ferguson
from BuzzFeed - Breaking http://ift.tt/1rNqzcm
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