DOJ Unveils Phoenix Police’s Unconstitutional Practices as City Leaders Roll Out Major Reforms

Proposals for significant reforms, including a hotline for reporting officer misconduct, gained unanimous approval from the Phoenix City Council.

In a pivotal meeting on Tuesday, the council voted 9-0 to initiate reforms aimed at addressing concerns raised in a recent Department of Justice (DOJ) report. The DOJ’s findings accused the Phoenix Police Department of systematic violations of residents’ constitutional rights.

The approved memo outlined a comprehensive set of actions designed to enhance accountability and transparency. Key proposals include:

• Creating a hotline for citizens to file complaints against officers
• Prioritizing the staffing of 911 dispatchers
• Expanding the usage of body-worn cameras
• Establishing an “Inspector Sergeant” position in all precincts to oversee misconduct investigations
• Setting clear deadlines for investigative report completion by the Professional Standards Bureau
• Updating policies in collaboration with the community to improve interactions with vulnerable populations

“Our commitment to constitutional policing requires us to enhance our ability to self-assess and self-correct,” noted a city memo outlining the reforms.

Additionally, Police Chief Michael Sullivan expressed plans for department-wide training on a new use-of-force policy by January 1.

However, several citizens expressed doubts about the police department’s capacity for genuine reform. Activist Percy Christian described the measures as “nothing more than mere band-aids covering bullet wounds.”

During the meeting, the council also discussed adding four new positions to create a “Compliance Analyst Team,” which would incur an estimated cost of $500,000. This team will include one police research supervisor and three analysts.

Council Member Carlos Galindo-Elvira emphasized that the current actions are not a panacea but rather a sincere endeavor to initiate change. The discussion around whether a consent decree, or some form of federal oversight, is necessary remains contentious.

Council Member Jim Waring voiced skepticism about the likelihood of the DOJ providing assistance, suggesting that further legal consultations might only prolong the conversation without resolution.

As discussions continue, the City of Phoenix and the DOJ have yet to reach an agreement on the path forward regarding the ongoing investigation.

“We must get this right; our reputation is at stake,” stated Council Member Laura Pastor, highlighting the gravity of the situation.