WORCESTER, Mass. - The Justice Department and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts announced Tuesday they are opening a civil investigation into the Worcester Police Department. 

The investigation will look into whether the WPD has a pattern or practice of excessive force or engages in discriminatory policing based on race or sex. According to the Justice Department, the investigation will include a review of the WPD's policies and procedures, system of accountability and how officers interact with the public.

The Justice Department did not give specifics on what led to the investigation, citing only "information provided to the Justice Department."

In a statement, Worcester Police Chief Steven Sargent, Mayor Joe Petty and Acting City Manager Eric Batista said "The City of Worcester is working in full cooperation with the Department of Justice and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts on the civil investigation announced this afternoon.

"The Worcester Police Department will continue to work with the state and federal partners on public safety initiatives to protect and serve our citizens. The City and Worcester Police Department collectively strive to deliver the highest quality of municipal services to residents and will continue to do so in a transparent and professional manner as the investigation takes its course."