MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE – Black residents in Memphis are raising alarms over alleged harassment and racial profiling by a federal police task force launched under the Trump administration. Despite claims that the Operation Legend Task Force reduces violent crime, locals report unjust stops, searches, and intimidation—fueling distrust in law enforcement.
Trump’s Task Force Faces Backlash for Targeting Black Neighborhoods
Deployed in 2020 as part of Trump’s “law and order” campaign, the task force operates in Memphis under the DOJ. Critics argue it disproportionately targets Black communities, with residents describing aggressive tactics:
“They slammed me against a wall and searched my bag without explanation,” said Marcus Johnson, a 32-year-old construction worker. “I’ve never been arrested, but they treated me like a criminal.”
Reports of late-night patrols and home raids in areas like South Memphis and Orange Mound have intensified fears of racialized policing.
Activists: “This Is Systematic Intimidation”
Groups like Memphis BLM and the NAACP accuse the task force of violating civil rights. A 2024 ACLU Tennessee report found Black Memphians were 3x more likely to be stopped than white residents in the same zones.
“This isn’t crime prevention—it’s oppression,” said activist Tanya Wilkins. “We need transparency, not terror.”
Political Divide Over Policing Strategies
While the Biden DOJ has shifted from Trump-era policies, the task force remains active. Tennessee Republicans, including Governor Bill Lee, credit it with a 15% drop in violent crime, but critics highlight unreported abuses.
“Stats don’t justify stripping rights,” said Councilmember Michalyn Easter-Thomas. “We need investments in housing and jobs—not raids.”
Calls for Reform Grow Louder
Residents and leaders demand:
– Independent audits of task force operations.
– Public racial data on stops/searches.
– Congressional hearings on misconduct.
“My son was stopped at a bus stop—for what?” said mother LaToya Reynolds. “We’re tired of living in fear.”
The Road Ahead
With elections looming, policing debates will escalate. For Memphis, the choice is clear: safety through trust or force.
“We deserve to breathe,” said Johnson.
— By [Your Name], Senior Correspondent, NextMinuteNews
