Newly released documents reveal that at least 11 Minneapolis police officers faced disciplinary measures for alleged policy violations during the unrest following the murder of George Floyd. The penalties ranged from firings to reprimands, shedding light on the department’s response to the protests.
The unrest erupted after former officer Derek Chauvin, a white officer, knelt on George Floyd’s neck for nearly 9 1/2 minutes on May 25, 2020, resulting in Floyd’s death and sparking global protests against police brutality and racism.
The reports, first disclosed by the Star Tribune, were slow to emerge, with the department typically withholding disciplinary outcomes until the completion of review processes. The recent releases detailed incidents such as the assault on Jaleel Stallings by police officers on May 30, 2020.
Former Interim Police Chief Amelia Huffman cited “unreasonable force” in firing Officer Justin Stetson for his involvement in the assault on Stallings. Stallings, an Army veteran, fired three shots at an unmarked police van after being shot with a “less lethal” round, leading to injuries including a fractured eye socket. Stetson pleaded guilty to assault, and the city later agreed to pay Stallings a $1.5 million settlement.
Disciplinary actions stemming from the incident included suspensions for other officers involved, such as Officer Tyler Klund, who received a 120-hour suspension for kicking Stallings and failing to activate his body camera. Officer Kristopher Dauble received a 40-hour suspension for firing rounds at pedestrians nearby, with the Police Chief emphasizing the fortunate absence of injuries.
Additionally, a report signed by former Police Chief Medaria Arradondo detailed the attempted firing of Sgt. Ronald Stenerson, who sprayed a chemical agent at a journalist despite the journalist’s compliance. Arradondo condemned Stenerson’s actions, emphasizing the unacceptable conduct, particularly from a supervisor.
Current Police Chief Brian O’Hara also imposed suspensions ranging from 10 to 40 hours against three officers involved in confrontations with protesters blocking the Interstate 35W bridge.
