The Maryland State Police (MDSP) will pay more than $2 million in back pay to Black and female applicants who failed the state trooper exam as part of a settlement agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). promised.
MDSP reached a $2.75 million settlement with the Department of Justice following allegations that MDSP's hiring process was in violation. Title VII According to reports on Wednesday, changes to the Civil Rights Act press release From the Department of Justice. The MDSP requires state trooper candidates to pass both a written exam and a physical exam, but the Justice Department claims it “discriminates” against black and female candidates who fail the exam. are.
The MDSP Functional Fitness Assessment Test (FFAT) required female candidates to perform “push-ups, sit-ups, seated reaches, trigger pulls, and a 1.5-mile run.” According to for complaints. Among test takers, 81% of male test takers were able to pass at least one physical exam, compared to only 51% of female test takers.
According to the complaint, MDSP's written police officer selection exam incorrectly “excluded” black applicants because it was found that the pass rate for black applicants was “significantly lower” than the pass rate for white applicants. It is also claimed that (Related: Scotus in custody? Opponents of Maryland's 'assault weapons' ban hold out hope after legal defeat)
WASHINGTON, DC – MAY 15: A Maryland State Trooper adjusts his hat as he arrives for the National Peace Officers Memorial Service at the U.S. Capitol on May 15, 2024 in Washington, DC. This service is in memory of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)
“Equal employment opportunity in law enforcement is not only a core civil right, but also a commitment to the communities that law enforcement employees are sworn to protect,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen of the Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division. “This is essential to ensure that we reflect our rich racial and gender diversity.” Clark said in a Justice Department press release.
The settlement must be approved by a federal judge, according to a Department of Justice press release.
“The Maryland State Police is committed to complying with the consent decree guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Justice and remains committed to supporting our sworn officers, protecting our communities, and serving the people of Maryland.” Roland L. Butler said in a statement to the Daily Caller News Foundation on Wednesday.
The Department of Justice declined to comment to DCNF.
All content produced by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent, nonpartisan news distribution service, is available free of charge to legitimate news publishers with large audiences. All republished articles must include our logo, reporter byline, and DCNF affiliation. If you have any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact us at licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
