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LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Louisville Metro Police Department is starting a new unit to better conduct use of force investigations.

Cases of the department's use of force have come under question by the U.S. Department of Justice.

While no agreement has been reached yet by the DOJ and LMPD, police said they're taking a proactive approach.

Paul Humphrey, LMPD's deputy chief of police, sent a memo to all employees that was obtained by WDRB News on Friday. The memo tells employees that starting in early 2024, the Force Investigation Review Unit, also known as FIRU, will begin conducting training for all commanding officers regarding LMPD's use of force investigative procedures.

Once the training begins, the unit will start reviewing incident reports involving use of force, pursuits, and incidents involving forced entry into homes. It will then provide feedback on the "thoroughness and accuracy of" the investigations.

Humphrey said the unit will report to the Assistant Chief of the Accountability and Improvement Bureau.

FIRU will consist of one lieutenant, one sergeant and a legal advisor. The goal is to "make sure commanding officers have the knowledge and tools to conduct thorough and objective use of force investigations and assessments." 

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