Over the past decade, the Independence Police Department has faced multiple incidents involving officer misconduct and high-speed pursuits resulting in civilian casualties. Notably, since April 2019, the city has paid out over $3.88 million to settle lawsuits related to police chases that led to injuries or deaths of innocent bystanders. These settlements include cases involving four fatalities and nine injuries. The department’s pursuit policies have been criticized for allowing chases for minor infractions, leading to dangerous situations and significant financial liabilities. Additionally, there have been instances of excessive use of force by officers, resulting in legal actions and public outcry.