Not long after these protests, the Justice Department released the results of a 17-month investigation into allegations that the Albuquerque police used excessive force. This investigation found that Albuquerque police “often use deadly force” when it is not needed, “often use unreasonable physical force” and generally operated without any real accountability.

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The Justice Department and city officials announced last week an agreement that would reform the city’s police department, revamp how officers use force and improve the way complaints against officers are investigated. The Albuquerque City Council held a special meeting to discuss the settlement on Thursday night and voted 8-0 to approve the deal.

“We are extremely proud of our community and police department for coming together in a time of serious challenges to the city to offer their advice and recommendations on a path forward,” Damon P. Martinez, U.S. attorney for the District of New Mexico, said in a statement after the settlement was announced last week. “Reform will not take place overnight and it will take time to heal our community, but we are well on our way.”

This agreement — which specifically notes that Albuquerque “does not concede the accuracy of these allegations” made by the Justice Department, does not admit any liability or acknowledge any improper conduct by police officers — says that the police department will make sure that officers avoid using force as much as possible and promises that uses of force will be thoroughly investigated.

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