DOJ: Phoenix police systematically used illegal excessive force. Reaction ranges from outrage to caution
DOJ: Phoenix police systematically used illegal excessive force. Reaction ranges from outrage to caution
A 126-page report issued after a three-year investigation showed violations of the First, Fourth and 14th Amendments by the Phoenix Police Department.
Many city officials and police representatives bristled at the findings, with reactions ranging from disappointment and frustration to anxiety and near outrage. One city leader said federal oversight would "neuter" the department, while a police leader said the report's findings were riddled with "innuendo" and "half-truths."
The city's top leaders, City Manager Jeff Barton and Mayor Kate Gallego, were more cautious, stressing they wanted to read the report fully before substantively weighing in.
Few activist organizations weighed in. There were no protests or demonstrations at City Hall, as has occurred in years past. Poder in Action said in a statement on social media the community was "disgusted, furious and heartbroken" but not surprised.
Jean Grey is very upset about that headline