Phoenix’s Civil Service Board has upheld the demotion of police officer who fatally shot a woman in 2014.
Phoenix police went to Michelle Cusseaux’s west side apartment with a court order to take her to a mental health facility.
Percy Dupra was among several officers who entered Cusseaux’s apartment after she refused to come out. Police say that when she threatened them with a hammer, Dupra feared for his life and shot Cusseaux.
The incident set off protests, and calls for more resources to treat the mentally ill.
Last fall, police Chief Joseph Yahner accepted a disciplinary board recommendation to demote Dupra from sergeant. Dupra appealed the decision, but it was denied this week.
Cusseaux’s family has filed a $7 million federal lawsuit against the city.