New Report On Ferguson Offers Lessons On Protests

Washington (AP) - A Justice Department report says the police response to unrest in Ferguson, Missouri last summer offers lessons in how not to handle mass demonstrations.

The report warns that such problems could happen in other places roiled by mistrust between law enforcement and the community.

The report is due to be released on Thursday. The Associated Press obtained a copy in advance.

It adds detail to a draft version made public in June. The report portrays poor community-police relations, ineffective communication among the more than 50 law enforcement agencies that responded, police orders that infringed on First Amendment rights, and military-style tactics that antagonized demonstrators.

Several law enforcement agencies whose actions were studied say they've made improvements in the last year and have learned from the events.