In a comprehensive report released on Thursday, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that the Phoenix Police Department has violated people's rights, engaged in discriminatory practices, and used excessive force, including "unjustified deadly force." The 126-page report unveiled a pattern of unconstitutional policing, particularly targeting certain races and individuals with behavioral health disabilities.

The investigation, which spanned nearly three years, highlighted multiple alarming findings. The report found that the Phoenix Police Department discriminates against specific races and individuals with behavioral health disabilities. It also uncovered that officers often detain and arrest homeless individuals without reasonable suspicion of a crime, while unlawfully disposing of their belongings. The report emphasized that a person's constitutional rights should not be disregarded based on their housing status.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke stated that this is the first time the DOJ has issued such findings regarding the treatment of Native American and homeless populations. Additionally, the report revealed that officers violated the rights of individuals engaged in protected speech and expression.

The investigation uncovered "pervasive failings" within the Phoenix Police Department that have perpetuated long-standing issues. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland emphasized that these findings indicate a pattern or practice of conduct that deprives residents and visitors, particularly Black, Hispanic, and Native American individuals, of their constitutional rights.

The report outlined instances where officers resorted to force instead of employing de-escalation tactics, particularly when responding to people with behavioral health disabilities. The DOJ criticized the over-reliance on law enforcement where behavioral health responders would have been more appropriate. The report further highlighted that officers enforced low-level offenses more severely against Black, Hispanic, and Native American individuals. Moreover, instances of unjustified force against handcuffed individuals were reported.

The Justice Department report cited a case where police shot projectiles at a man accused of taking his mother's car without permission. The officer continued firing even after the man was on his knees, resulting in serious injuries. The report also raised concerns about the department's treatment of children and the lasting impact of aggressive police encounters on their well-being.

The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (PLEA), the police union, has scheduled a press conference to address these findings. The City of Phoenix has already spent $7.5 million on the Justice Department investigation.

This investigation is the third sweeping civil investigation into a law enforcement agency under the Biden administration's focus on policing and civil rights, whereas only a few such investigations were opened during the previous administration. The DOJ's probe will examine discriminatory policing practices and whether officers have retaliated against individuals exercising their First Amendment rights.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego initially welcomed the investigation and expressed her commitment to ongoing police reform. However, she has stated that the findings will be reviewed before further comment.

The Phoenix Police Department has already implemented some reforms, including a campaign called "#8CantWait" that banned chokeholds, shooting at moving vehicles, and required warnings before using deadly force. Critical incident briefings are now released within 14 days of police shootings or other use-of-force incidents, and partnerships with the DOJ and community have been strengthened.

The release of this report marks an important step toward accountability and transparency. The DOJ is committed to working with the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Police Department to initiate meaningful reform, strengthen police-community trust, and protect the civil rights and safety of Phoenix residents.

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