The use of excessive or unnecessary force by
police officers against
civilians.
Police brutality causes death, bodily harm, and psychological harm. It is associated with racial profiling and other targeting practices, but can affect anyone.
Police brutality is frequently covered up by the mainstream media, thus decreasing its visibility. This trend continues, although recently more instances are coming to light, such as the assault on Rodney King and the WTO demonstrations.
Despite growing awareness about this issue, brutal cops are rarely penalized and almost never lose their jobs over it.