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Statement Condemning Federal Oversight of Phoenix Police Department
“The announcement made today by the U.S. Department of Justice to seek federal oversight of the Phoenix Police Department is a shameful and unfounded decision by the federal government. The Phoenix Police Department has a long-standing history of implementing reforms and addressing issues within the agency to maintain the integrity of the profession.
Unfortunately, we know here at Maricopa County that it is nearly impossible to end DOJ oversight, even when the right changes have been implemented. After more than 15 years, and almost $300 million spent thus far in costs, the compliance benchmarks keep moving further away and court-appointed monitors continue to cash a paycheck.
My fear is that Phoenix residents and businesses will be less safe. At least 15 Phoenix police officers have been shot in the last five years. The men and women who serve in the Phoenix Police Department deserve our support, not a costly federal takeover which will result in less safe communities. I stand with the Phoenix Police Department and hope a resolution can be reached that will keep Washington D.C. out of Phoenix."
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