'We need a new compact between the people of Minneapolis and the people trusted to protect and serve': Minneapolis police chief announces reforms

Wednesday, Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo announced his plans to bring reform to the Minneapolis Police Department following the death of George Floyd. 

During a press conference, the chief said he plans to withdraw from contract negotiations with the Police Officers' Federation of Minneapolis. 

"I plan to bring in subject matter experience and advisors to conduct a thorough review of how the contract can be restructured to provide greater community transparency and more flexibility for true reform," he said. 

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The review done by advisors will look at critical incident protocols, use of force, and disciplinary protocols, including grievances and arbitration, among other things.

The current police union contract expired on Dec. 31 but remains in effect until there is a new one, according to the city's website.

Arradondo's second measure is to integrate systems that use research on police behavior so department leaders can identify signs of misconduct and intervene. 

In a statement Wednesday morning, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey praised Arradondo's moves to suspend contract negotiations and monitor police behavior. 

“We don’t just need a new contract with the police,” Frey stated. “We need a new compact between the people of Minneapolis and the people trusted to protect and serve – and we need to go farther than we ever have in making sweeping structural reform. 

“Additional accountability between the people and the police needs to be matched with internal ability to closely monitor police behavior and intervene early to prevent more tragedy. I applaud the Chief’s courage, continued resolve to challenge the status quo, and clear message for the people of Minneapolis.”

The chief also spoke on the issue of race and the American policing system. 

"We will never evolve in this profession if we do not address head-on," he said. "Communities of color have paid the heaviest of costs, and that is with their lives. And our children must be safeguarded from ever having to contribute to the horrific and shameful chapter of this country's history."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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