Amidst the public cries for local and state government reformation and the protection of civil rights, a new city has arisen as the focal point in a battle for justice as old America itself. In the last month, the media has shifted its gaze to the city of Baltimore. This “spark” of interest is accredited to the untimely and deeply mourned death of Freddie Gray, a 25-year old Baltimore resident, accused of possessing an illegal switchblade. Gray passed away seven days after being taken into custody, his death believed to be caused by an injuring sustained in an altercation with police officers.

Early this afternoon, the United States Justice Department has announced is decision to conduct a federal civil rights investigation as a result of the questionable and often brutal use of force by the Baltimore Police Department. Going beyond the frequent and excessive display of aggression that is so rampant in the Maryland city, the investigation will attempt to uncover any “systematic violations” in addition to establishing whether there is any pattern of discriminatory policing.

According to a statement given by U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch, the “investigation will begin immediately and will focus on allegations that Baltimore Police Department officers use excessive force, including deadly force, conduct unlawful searches, seizures and arrests, and engage in discriminatory policing.” In reflection on the tarnished relationship between the Baltimore citizens and the city police, Lynch, who took office just last week, affirms that there is a serious erosion of public trust.

Civil, rather than criminal charges will be employed in the event that the Justice Department uncovers any violations or infractions. In the past, departments that have been deemed guilty of infringing on civil rights have been subjected to a court ordered improvement plan(s), which will likely include an independent monitor, charged with the task of retraining officers and reporting any and all arrest data. Civil charges will equate to no jail time for any individual officer.