The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association is holding a vote of no confidence on the city’s police chief Daniel Garcia. This action comes after the suicide of former police officer Craig Tiger.
Tiger was fired after being charged with a DUI in June of 2013. He was also believed to have PTSD.
Joe Clure, president of PLEA, said the officer’s suicide was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
“He is a threatening, intimidating, bullying, oppressive leader, ruler and that is his style and it doesn’t sit well with people," Clure said about Chief Garcia.
Garcia said in a statement, “The circumstances surrounding the death of Craig Tiger are extremely unfortunate... We will not be commenting further about this issue until funeral services are complete.”
Clure said the association will be releasing more information about how Garcia managed the department and why officers want him removed.
He said Garcia rules the department as a tyrant.
“You cannot have another opinion, he is indifferent to any suggestions from anyone," Clure said. "If you speak up against a decision or are critical of a decision, he will retaliate by threatening you with transfers at his whim. He will threaten you and does demotions.”
Garcia is not commenting about the pending vote of no confidence. Clure said the vote is in progress now and should be finished by Dec. 10.
