Commissioners Discuss MPD Disciplinary Matrix and Comparisons to Other Cities

The August 19, 2025, meeting of the Community Commission on Police Oversight in Minneapolis focused on reviewing and discussing the proposed changes to the police discipline matrix. The meeting began with a presentation highlighting the differences between Minneapolis' proposed matrix and those from other cities, including New Orleans, Cleveland, Baltimore, and Albuquerque.

The first significant discussion point was the clarity and detail of the proposed penalty schedule. A member emphasized the importance of having a specific level assigned to each potential violation, contrasting it with Minneapolis' current system, which offers a range of levels for offenses. This lack of specificity has led to confusion during review panels, where opinions on the severity of violations can vary widely. The speaker advocated for a more streamlined approach to enhance clarity and comprehension.

Next, comparisons were made with Cleveland's discipline matrix, which was criticized for being vague and overly complex. The speaker noted that while Minneapolis' draft is clearer, it still contains excessive detail that could be simplified. The discussion then shifted to Baltimore's approach, which, while less detailed than Minneapolis', treats certain offenses more seriously.

Albuquerque's discipline system was also examined, particularly its civilian oversight agency's role in the complaint process. Unlike Minneapolis, Albuquerque's agency is involved earlier in the disciplinary process, which could inform Minneapolis' approach moving forward. The Albuquerque matrix was praised for its clear structure, which includes minimum, presumptive, and maximum penalties for violations.

As the meeting progressed, members expressed a consensus on the need to streamline the Minneapolis discipline matrix. The current draft, while detailed, was deemed too lengthy and complex, making it difficult for users to navigate. Suggestions were made to reduce the document's length and improve its usability, with a focus on maintaining essential details while enhancing clarity.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of refining the police discipline matrix to ensure it is both comprehensive and user-friendly. The commission plans to continue discussions on these proposed changes, aiming for a more effective oversight system that balances clarity with necessary detail. Further discussions and revisions are expected in upcoming meetings as the commission seeks to finalize the matrix.