DOJ Opens Investigation Into Mississippi Sheriff’s Department Where ‘Goon Squad’ Operated

This was launched after six former deputies of the department pleaded guilty to state and federal charges in connection with the abuse of two black men in 2023.

(From top L) Former Rankin County sheriff’s deputies Hunter Elward, Christian Dedmon, Brett McAlpin, Jeffrey Middleton, Daniel Opdyke, and former Richland police officer Joshua Hartfield appear at the Rankin County Circuit Court in Brandon, Miss., on Aug. 14, 2023. Rogelio V. Solis/AP Photo

The Department of Justice (DOJ) stated on Sept. 19 that it has opened an investigation into a Mississippi sheriff’s department where six former officers who called themselves the “Goon Squad” pleaded guilty to state and federal charges in connection with the abuse and torture of two black men in 2023.

In its investigation, the DOJ stated that it would determine if the Rankin County Sheriff’s Department has engaged in violations of federal law and the Constitution such as illegal searches and seizures, unlawful stops, and discriminatory arrests.