Crime, Law and Justice

Minnesota protesters pull down Columbus statue at Capitol
Protesters in Minnesota pulled down a statue of Christopher Columbus outside the State Capitol Wednesday amid continuing anger over the police killing of George Floyd. The protesters threw a rope around the 10-foot bronze statue and pulled it off its stone pedestal. 
Minneapolis police chief to pull out of union negotiations
Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo announced Wednesday that the city aims to withdraw from negotiations over the police union’s contract, but labor law experts say it’s not within the city’s authority, and would likely trigger a court battle.
Fraternal Order of Police president: 'We all agree that we need to have some reform'
Patrick Yoes, who leads the nation's largest police union, says his responsibility is to ensure "quality law enforcement" nationwide. Critics, however, say police unions are stifling reform.
Supreme Court upholds Minneapolis sick time ordinance
The state Supreme Court rejected an appeal by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and upheld a requirement for paid sick leave for employees in Minneapolis, even those who work for businesses based outside of the city.
Policing is an 'avatar of American racism,' Marshall Project journalist says
The conversations since George Floyd's death have felt different, journalist Jamiles Lartey says: There's less of the "few bad apples" argument and much more of the "What is wrong with this system?"
Ex-judge says push to dismiss Flynn case is abuse of power
A former federal judge appointed to review the Justice Department’s motion to dismiss criminal charges against President Donald Trump’s former national security adviser Michael Flynn said there was evidence of a “gross abuse” of prosecutorial power and that the request should be denied.
This is how I feel: A playlist by young black listeners
Music has always been a vital part of protest and social justice. We asked our young Black listeners: Is there one song that's helping you address your feelings right now?
'Please listen': George Floyd's brother testifies in House Judiciary hearing
In wrenching testimony before a House panel Wednesday, George Floyd's younger brother Philonise told committee members, "By speaking to you today, maybe I can make sure his life was not in vain.”