St. Louis City Sues Police Board Over Takeover

City argues state control of police department is unconstitutional

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:06pm

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A photorealistic painting of a lone police car parked on a shadowy urban street, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative, cinematic mood.The city's lawsuit against the state-controlled police board reflects the ongoing power struggle over law enforcement in St. Louis.St. Louis Today

The City of St. Louis has filed a 39-page lawsuit against the St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners, alleging the state's takeover of the police department and its conditions are unconstitutional.

Why it matters

The lawsuit represents an escalating legal battle over control of the St. Louis Police Department, which has been under state control since 2020 amid concerns over use of force and accountability issues.

The details

The lawsuit lays out dozens of reasons why the city believes the state's takeover and oversight of the police department violates the Missouri Constitution. The city is seeking to regain local control over its police force.

  • The lawsuit was filed on April 9, 2026.

The players

City of St. Louis

The local government of St. Louis, Missouri, which is suing the state-controlled Board of Police Commissioners.

St. Louis Board of Police Commissioners

The state-appointed body that has overseen the St. Louis Police Department since 2020.

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What’s next

The lawsuit will now proceed through the court system, with the city and state making their respective legal arguments.

The takeaway

This lawsuit represents the latest chapter in the ongoing power struggle over policing in St. Louis, with the city seeking to regain local control over its police force from the state-appointed oversight board.