DOJ releases report slamming Phoenix PD [Video]

(NBC, KYMA/KECY) – Following a multi-year investigation of the Phoenix Police Department (PPD), the Department of Justice (DOJ) released a scathing report on Thursday, saying officers exhibited a pattern of violating suspects’ civil rights.

In the review, the DOJ has now revealed that Phoenix police officers had a pattern of using unconstitutional conduct, excessive force and discriminated against Black, Hispanic and Indigenous communities, and violated the rights of the homeless and unsheltered.

“You don’t get better, unless you look at criticism that we have. And you know…this report is very critical of our police department,” said Michael Sullivan, Interim Chief of the PPD.

Sullivan said the report isn’t an accurate reflection of the department, but should be used as a map on how to improve. He also said he was surprised to learn some of the details in the findings.

“You know, it came to my attention today with what the Assistant Attorney General provided for us. I’m interested to see the what that data actually looks like. It …