The Department of Justice has initiated a civil rights investigation into Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty's policy that requires prosecutors to consider race in plea deals. This directive, which seeks to address racial disparities, has been criticized for potentially violating constitutional rights by factoring race into prosecutorial decisions. Moriarty, elected amid a wave of progressive district attorneys, has faced backlash for her reforms, including decisions on charging and sentencing. The investigation aims to determine if these practices constitute a pattern of unconstitutional conduct. The DOJ's Civil Rights Division will oversee the probe, seeking cooperation from Moriarty's office to gather relevant information and resolve the matter without litigation if possible.

The DOJ's investigation into the Hennepin County Attorney's Office stems from a policy requiring race to be considered in plea deals, which could infringe on constitutional rights.

Mary Moriarty, a progressive DA elected after George Floyd's death, implemented the policy to address racial disparities, but it has sparked controversy and backlash.

The DOJ is examining whether the policy results in illegal racial considerations in prosecutorial decisions, which may constitute a pattern of rights deprivation.

Despite Moriarty's intent to reform the justice system, her approach has faced criticism, including from police and political figures, for perceived leniency and dropping charges in high-profile cases.

The investigation, led by the DOJ's Civil Rights Division's Special Litigation Sections, aims to gather information and possibly resolve the issue without contested litigation.

Moriarty's election and policy changes were supported by George Soros-backed groups and the state Democratic Party, but her tenure has been marked by challenges and opposition.

The DOJ has reached out to Moriarty for cooperation in the investigation, emphasizing the importance of resolving the matter amicably and examining the policy's broader implications.