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Attorney says Grand Rapids police targeting minority youth for searches

Grand Rapids police officer directing traffic.
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An African-American man is suing the city of Grand Rapids over a police practice his attorney says unfairly targets minorities.

A city attorney wouldn’t comment on the specific case, but says the policy follows the law.

Keyon Harrison was a teen in May 2012 when he says Grand Rapids police searched his bag, took his picture and thumbprint after he left a park. He says he didn't agree to be searched. The city denies that.

His attorney says police are targeting minorities violating their rights to fair and equitable treatment.

Harrison was never charged with a crime.

Lindsey Smith is a Peabody Award-winning journalist currently leading the station's Amplify Team. She previously served as Michigan Public's Morning News Editor, Investigative Reporter and West Michigan Reporter.
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