Working group formed to discuss deadly force encounters

The Minnnesota Department of Public Safety has announced a working group will discuss police-involved deadly force encounters.  Organizers says it will ensure all voices are heard in developing recommendations which may include state or local policy changes, updates to procedures, legislative initiatives, training, officer wellness, community healing, or recognition of best practices utilized by law enforcement agencies. 

Minnesota Public Safety Commissioner John Harrington and Attorney General Keith Ellison will serve as co-chairs of the 16-member body. The working group is comprised of people from various backgrounds and communities around the state.
The working group will convene a series of three hearings:
  • Investigation, Oversight and Accountability
  • Prevention and Training; Officer Wellness and Community Healing
  • Policy and Legal Implications
Each hearing will have three to four panels; each panel will consist of 3-4 witnesses who will provide testimony relevant to the theme for the day.  Panels and witnesses will represent community, academia, subject matter experts, law enforcement and prosecutors. Hearings will be open to the public. 
Working Group Media Coverage
At the conclusion of each hearing, there will be a public comment period for feedback relevant to the topics discussed.  All feedback – including witness testimony, in-person comments and email contact - will be documented for the record and considered during working group deliberations. 
Hearing Dates and Times
  • Hearing One: Saturday, Aug. 17. The topic will be Investigation, Oversight and Accountability.
  • Hearing Two: Saturday, Sept. 28. The topic will be Prevention, Training, Officer Wellness and Community Healing.
  • Hearing Three: Thursday, Oct. 17. The topic will be Policy and Legal Implications