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Phoenix Opens Criminal Probe Into Two Officers After South Phoenix Traffic Stop

The department said the criminal inquiry will be followed by an internal review to determine whether officers violated policy.

Overview

  • Two Phoenix officers were placed on administrative leave after a traffic stop in South Phoenix on Aug. 5 when both allegedly used force and failed to activate their body-worn cameras.
  • Police announced on Aug. 17 that they opened a criminal investigation after community members reported the alleged misconduct last week.
  • The department’s Special Investigations Detail is leading the criminal probe and the Professional Standards Bureau will begin an administrative review after the criminal inquiry concludes.
  • Officials have not named the officers or described the type or severity of force and say details remain limited while investigators work.
  • Department policy requires officers to turn on body cameras and report any use of force, failures that can trigger criminal charges, internal discipline, and increased public scrutiny of police practices.