Chicago Officer Arrested by Tempe Police After Traffic Stop Files Legal Claim

TEMPE, Ariz. — Jalen Woods, a Chicago police officer, has filed a notice of claim against the Tempe Police Department following his arrest last August. This incident occurred while he was driving a rental vehicle on Mill Avenue, leading to allegations of racial profiling.

On August 23, 2024, Woods was pulled over shortly before midnight. Officers claimed he had engaged in an “exhibition of speed,” but Woods and his attorney contest these assertions, stating he was simply driving in heavy traffic. “The crowded conditions made speeding impossible,” the claim reads, further suggesting the stop was racially motivated.

Woods expressed his shock and fear to 12News, recounting a long-held anxiety regarding interactions with law enforcement. “What happened to me that day shouldn’t have happened,” he stated. His attorney, Benjamin Taylor, emphasized that Woods, an African American and a Marine veteran, felt singled out based on his race and the type of vehicle he was driving.

The Tempe Police Department acknowledged the arrest, maintaining that their actions were justified due to community concerns about reckless driving and street racing. In a statement, they firmly rejected allegations of discrimination. “There was no discrimination against Officer Woods,” they stated, affirming that he was treated like any other individual in a similar situation.

The notice of claim also raised concerns about Woods’ treatment while in custody, stating he did not receive medical aid when requested and subsequently developed a bacterial infection due to unsanitary conditions. The claim underlines the emotional and professional consequences Woods faced, including being placed on administrative leave after his arrest.

Although the charges against him were eventually dismissed, Woods incurred legal fees and costs associated with retrieving the rental vehicle from impound. The notice of claim represents Woods’ intention to seek damages, and he has expressed disappointment in the lack of communication from the Tempe Police Department since the incident.

As the case continues to unfold, the Tempe Police Department asserts that their review cleared the officers involved of wrongdoing, insisting they responded appropriately to address public safety concerns.