Phoenix police have been accused of using excessive force and violating the civil rights of residents, according to a report by the US Justice Department. The federal agency detailed cases of misconduct, including unjustified deadly force and discrimination against black, Hispanic, and Native American residents. Additionally, officers were accused of unlawfully detaining, ticketing, and arresting homeless people.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke highlighted various instances of misconduct, such as officers using Tasers, projectiles, leg restraints, police dogs, and deadly force, including guns and neck restraints, on individuals. The report also mentioned delays in providing medical aid to wounded individuals and the use of excessive force.
Specific allegations included officers shooting a man throwing rocks at their vehicle, shooting a suicidal woman who had a gun, and shooting a man with a less-lethal projectile launcher. The report also mentioned instances where officers delayed rendering aid to individuals who were shot.
The Phoenix Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 2 criticized the report, calling it misleading and full of half-truths. President Lou Manganiello disputed the findings, claiming they were based on unsubstantiated accusations and illogical conclusions.
Furthermore, the report found that Phoenix police unlawfully detained, cited, and arrested homeless individuals, with 37% of arrests between 2016-22 involving homeless people. The Justice Department also accused Phoenix police of firing their guns at individuals who did not pose an immediate threat and putting themselves in situations that increased the likelihood of firing their weapons.
In response to the report, Phoenix police stated that they were analyzing the findings and committed to continuous improvement through policy enhancements, increased accountability, and training. The Justice Department expressed its intention to work with Phoenix officials to address the allegations and find a mutually acceptable path forward.
This investigation is part of the Justice Department’s efforts to hold law enforcement agencies accountable for civil rights violations and excessive use of force. Similar investigations have been conducted in other cities, including Louisville and Minneapolis, where wrongdoing was found in the respective police departments. The findings in Phoenix raise concerns about the need for reform and oversight within the police department to ensure the protection of residents’ civil rights.