Justice Department report finds racial bias in Ferguson police

A U.S. Justice Department investigation found sweeping patterns of racial bias within the Ferguson Police Department, with officers routinely discriminating against blacks by using excessive force, issuing petty citations and making baseless traffic stops, according to law enforcement officials familiar with its findings.

The report, expected to be released today, marks the culmination of a months-long investigation into the police department after the Aug. 9 shooting death of an unarmed black man, 18-year-old Michael Brown, according to The Associated Press.

The report could mean sweeping changes for the department if city officials accept its findings. Past investigations by the Justice Department have encouraged overhauls of fundamental police procedures such as traffic stops and the use of service weapons.

The Justice Department maintains the right to sue police departments that resist making changes.

Read more from The Associated Press.