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The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced the dismissal of its investigation into the Oklahoma City Police Department (OKCPD) regarding alleged discrimination against individuals with behavioral health disabilities. The investigation, initiated in 2022 by the DOJ's Civil Rights Division, examined complaints that OKCPD failed to provide community-based mental health services, leading to unnecessary institutionalization and police encounters.
In January, the DOJ released a report indicating that the state of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City, and the OKCPD had discriminated against people with behavioral health issues. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke stated that individuals with such disabilities were not receiving necessary support and were instead institutionalized or faced police responses during emergencies. However, on Wednesday (May 21), the DOJ, now under the Trump administration, announced the closure of this investigation and the retraction of the Biden administration's findings of constitutional violations.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon criticized the previous administration's approach, stating that overbroad police consent decrees removed local control from communities and handed it to unelected bureaucrats. The DOJ emphasized its continued support for police departments through grants and technical assistance.
Despite the investigation's closure, Oklahoma City has been proactive in addressing mental health crisis responses. The city established an advisory committee to develop alternative responses to 911 mental health calls, launching the Mobile Integrated Healthcare program earlier this month. OKC police Capt. Valerie Littlejohn highlighted the department's commitment to improving mental health responses and collaborating with community partners.
The DOJ's decision also affects investigations in other cities, including Louisville, Minneapolis, Phoenix, and Memphis, as the department rolls back federal lawsuits and prior investigations initiated during the Biden administration.