Protest calls for Department of Justice investigation into KCK police department

A protest this afternoon in Kansas City, Kansas, called for a U.S. Department of Justice investigation into the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department.

The protest by the Metro Organization for Racial and Economic Equity (MORE2) took place outside police headquarters in Kansas City, Kansas.

Those involved in MORE2 include several activists and some area pastors. Some of the incidents referred to took place several years ago.

“MORE2 asked Mayor Alvey to call for a Department of Justice investigation of KCKPD two years ago,” said Marcus Winn, lead organizer for integrated voter engagement for MORE2. “We applaud the comments made by candidate Tyrone Garner in support of a DOJ investigation and hope all mayoral candidates will stand united in calling for an outside investigation of the corruption and violence perpetrated by our local police.”

A spokesman for the Kansas City, Kansas, Police Department released this statement:

“The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department continues to be willing, and available, to assist any agency working any investigation involving our department,” KCK Police Chief Karl Oakman said. “Our relationship with the community is of utmost importance, which is why we are focused on strengthening current relationships and restoring those that have been broken.”