From [HERE] The Justice Department and Seattle announced a settlement Friday over long-simmering allegations of excessive force by police officers.

The agreement calls for a federal court-appointed monitor who will resolve disputes that might arise over the next several years, according to officials. The monitor will also be able to order changes in the reforms announced Friday, if necessary. "This agreement represents a blueprint for reform," said Assistant Attorney General Thomas Perez, the nation's chief civil rights official, who flew to Seattle to join city officials for the announcement. A series of allegations by minority groups that police were quick to resort to force in several instances prompted the Justice Department to launch an investigation.