Phoenix leaders will meet behind closed doors Tuesday to discuss the Department of Justice findings into the city’s police department. When the council meets in executive session, the public is not allowed to attend or listen and the council cannot take final action, based on state law.
Executive session is an opportunity for members to share their opinions and ask questions about the city’s options and potential costs. This month, the DOJ released a 126-page document detailing its nearly three- year investigation. It found a “pattern or practice” that violates the Constitution and civil rights, including discriminatory policing and excessive force.
Earlier this year, the city launched a campaign, saying current and future reforms are addressing the issues. The DOJ acknowledged some changes but said the police cannot police themselves. If they can’t reach an agreement, the DOJ can take Phoenix to court to mandate reform.
During its June 13 announcement, the DOJ said consent decrees, which are legally-binding agreements that involve a court-ordered monitor have historically “proven to be the kind of reform measures needed to ensure lasting and meaningful reform.”
The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, a labor group representing officers and sergeants, is opposed to a consent decree.
