STOPPING POLICE BRUTALITY in America has proven difficult. Despite awareness of the problem since the early days of police departments, citizens have not been able to make it go away. Investigations by commissions from the 1930s to the 1990s produced concrete suggestions to reduce brutality. Many of these suggestions have been tried, though not all of them have been effective.

Because brutality still occurs, responsible citizens continue to look for solutions. Some police departments have made significant improvements, and other cities can look to these models as guides. Police department reforms, legal pressure, media exposure, and citizen interest can all help to further reduce police brutality.

Resort to courts

The high cost of resolving brutality complaints is currently driving debate about police reform. Costs are incurred at many stages during a claim of brutality. Complaints against the police must be investigated. If the victim files a...