Trump’s Memphis crime taskforce accused of using ‘immense force’ in intimidation campaign
An anti-crime taskforce in Memphis, ordered by Donald Trump, faces accusations of using excessive force against community observers. The ACLU claims that agents have engaged in intimidation tactics, including surveillance and false arrests. A lawsuit has been filed against state and federal officials, detailing various incidents of harassment and retaliation against those monitoring the taskforce's activities.
- ▪The ACLU alleges that the taskforce has retaliated against community observers with intimidation tactics.
- ▪Incidents include tailing cars, surveilling homes, and false arrests of activists.
- ▪The taskforce was launched in response to high rates of violent crime in Memphis, with over 2,000 police officers deployed.
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Members of the national guard patrol along Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, on 24 October 2025. Photograph: George Walker IV/APView image in fullscreenMembers of the national guard patrol along Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee, on 24 October 2025. Photograph: George Walker IV/APTennesseeTrump’s Memphis crime taskforce accused of using ‘immense force’ in intimidation campaignExclusive: community observers claim agents have tailed cars, surveilled homes and even ‘falsely arrested’ someoneGeorge Chidi in MemphisThu 28 May 2026 15.22 EDTLast modified on Thu 28 May 2026 15.24 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleAn anti-crime taskforce ordered by Donald Trump onto the streets of Memphis has been accused of targeting community observers with widespread intimidation including “immense…
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