MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. (WCBS 880) — Federal prosecutors have launched a civil rights investigation into the Mount Vernon Police Department, which has been accused of using excessive force and conducting illegal strip searches.
The U.S. Justice Department said Friday it will examine whether the Mount Vernon Police Department has engaged in a "pattern or practice of discriminatory policing."
The review will include an assessment of the department's uses of force, strip and body cavity searches, how officers handle evidence, as well as the department's policies, training, supervision and internal investigations.
"The investigation we are announcing today will assess whether the Mount Vernon Police Department engages in discriminatory conduct singling out Black residents for mistreatment," said Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York.
Westchester County District Attorney Mimi Rocah called for the federal investigation in late April, citing a pattern of unjustified strip searches and other misconduct.
"I commend the Department of Justice and the Southern District of New York for dedicating substantial federal resources to vigorously defend the civil rights laws through a comprehensive investigation of possible violations of civil liberties by the Mount Vernon Police Department," Rocah said in a statement Friday. "Shortly after taking office, I referred certain practices of the MVPD to DOJ. Today's announcement demonstrates that parallel parts of the justice system operate to help create a safe environment for our communities. Out of respect for the federal investigation, my office will have no further comment at this time."
Federal authorities also received tips from the public.
"We find significant justification to open this investigation now," said Kristen Clarke, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. "We have received information about the repeated use of excessive force, often against individuals who are handcuffed, are already in police custody, or are suspected of non-violent offenses, including exessive force against minors."
Williams said if the allegations are proven to be true the feds will demand reforms.
"We enter into a settlement agreement or a consent decree with the police department that requires specified reforms designed to ensure its officers follow the law going forward," Williams said.
The Mount Vernon mayor and police commissioner are cooperating with the investigation.
While this is a civil case, criminal charges will not be ruled out.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.