Civil Rights Investigation Launched Against Phoenix Police, City

PHOENIX, AZ — The U.S. Department of Justice has launched a civil rights investigation into the city of Phoenix and the Phoenix Police Department, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland announced Thursday.

The investigation will look into all types of force used by Phoenix police, according to a news release. It will also determine whether the department engages in discriminatory policing or retaliation against citizens and whether it illegally disposes of homeless people's belongings.

The probe is also expected to look into Phoenix police's system for responding to people with disabilities.

The investigation is similar to ones opened by the Department of Justice in other cities including Minneapolis and Louisville, Kentucky.

"When we conduct pattern or practice investigations to determine whether the Constitution or federal law has been violated, our aim is to promote transparency and accountability," Garland said in the release. "This increases public trust, which in turn increases public safety. We know that law enforcement shares these goals."

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said in a statement that she welcomes the investigation. She said she and other city officials, including Police Chief Jeri Williams, will support the process.

"Comprehensive reform of policing in the City of Phoenix has been my priority since the first day I took office," Gallego said in a statement posted to Twitter. "The recommendations that result from this review will assist us in our ongoing efforts to become an even safer, stronger, more equitable city."