DOJ settles with Lexington, Mississippi over policing practices found unlawful in 2024

The Justice Department has reached a settlement with the City of Lexington, Mississippi and its police department following a 2024 federal findings report that identified a pattern of civil rights violations. The agreement covers fines and fees, bail practices, conflicts of interest, and use-of-force policies, and follows an investigation opened in March 2023.

• The settlement follows the Department's September 26, 2024 findings report identifying a pattern or practice of civil rights violations by the Lexington Police Department.
• The City and LPD will amend policies regarding fines and fees, bail and release criteria, and potential conflicts of interest.
• LPD will revise its policies on stops, searches, arrests, and use of force, and update reporting and review procedures for such officer activity.
• The investigation was initiated in March 2023 under 34 U.S.C. 12601 by the Civil Rights Division's Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Mississippi.