Promoted Minneapolis Police Lieutenant Sparks Controversy

In an internal announcement, a Minneapolis police lieutenant has been promoted to lead the department's homicide unit. This decision has raised concerns among police reform advocates who question the commitment to change within the department. The lieutenant in question, Aimee Linson, had been placed on paid leave for over a year due to a forwarded email with racist content. The promotion comes as the city faces ongoing scrutiny following the murder of George Floyd by former officer Derek Chauvin in 2020. Critics argue that this promotion conflicts with the city's stated efforts to transform its policing culture. Kimberly Milliard, from the Racial Justice Network, expressed disappointment and pointed out that the department is still engaging in practices that led to the need for consent decrees. These remarks reference the consent decrees hanging over the department, as well as the recent Minnesota Department of Human Rights investigation that revealed discriminatory policing practices in Minneapolis. While Linson stated that she did not remember sending the racist email, the investigation confirmed that it had been forwarded by her in 2012. The email contained pictures portraying Black individuals in a negative way. Despite the findings, Linson was only given a written reprimand by Chief Brian O'Hara in April. In defense of the promotion, O'Hara emphasized Linson's extensive experience leading crisis negotiations and shooting response teams. He claimed that she was the most qualified candidate to oversee the homicide unit due to her ability to provide leadership during investigations and support individuals affected by such crimes. The controversial decision has reignited the debate surrounding police reform efforts in Minneapolis, especially as the department continues to face ongoing legal challenges and pressure from the community for meaningful change.