Trump deletes nationwide database on police misconduct which was created after George Floyd’s death
ArchiveFirst published February 21, 2025. It may not reflect later developments.
Trump Deletes Police Misconduct Database
President Donald Trump has revoked an executive order that established a nationwide database tracking police misconduct. The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the database, created to hold officers accountable, has been shut down.
The database was introduced after the 2020 killing of George Floyd, whose death sparked nationwide protests against police brutality. Former Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin kneeled on Floyd’s neck for over nine minutes, leading to his death. Floyd’s final words, “I can’t breathe,” became a rallying cry for justice. Chauvin was later convicted of murder and sentenced to 22 years in prison, plus an additional 20 years for civil rights violations.
Originally suggested by Trump in 2020, the initiative was implemented in 2022 under President Joe Biden. The database, launched in December 2023, compiled disciplinary records from 90 federal agencies. However, the Trump administration justified its removal, calling it an “illegal” and “radical” policy.
Critics condemned the decision. Thomas Abt stated, “Everyone… has an interest in keeping officers with histories of serious misconduct from rejoining the profession.” Lauren Bonds added, “Trump has made clear… that he doesn’t think law enforcement accountability advances public safety.”
