DOJ to Announce Findings in Phoenix Police Civil Rights Investigation
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) is set to announce the findings of its nearly three-year investigation into the Phoenix Police Department. Initiated in August 2021, the investigation examined several areas of conduct, including the use of force, discriminatory practices, treatment of individuals with disabilities or experiencing homelessness, and retaliation against protesters. The city of Phoenix has provided extensive documentation for the investigation, including over 180,000 documents, 22,000 body-worn camera videos, and 20 terabytes of data.
City leaders have expressed frustration with the ongoing federal probe, which has already cost Phoenix $7.5 million. Despite the city's opposition to a consent decree, the DOJ has indicated that the findings could lead to a court order mandating changes within the police department. The investigation's results, expected to be announced in a news conference led by Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, could have significant implications for the Phoenix Police Department and its future operations.
