Phoenix Police Supervisor Claims He Hasn’t Read DOJ Report Criticizing Protest Unit
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Phoenix Police Supervisor Claims He Hasn’t Read DOJ Report Criticizing Protest Unit

Lt. Benjamin Moore, former leader of the disbanded Tactical Response Unit, faces scrutiny amid allegations of unconstitutional practices.

PHOENIX — The Phoenix police lieutenant who oversaw the city’s controversial protest response team testified this week that he has never read the Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation report that found extensive issues with how his team operated.

Lt. Benjamin Moore, who led the Tactical Response Unit (TRU) before it was disbanded due to multiple scandals, made the claim during a trial involving two protesters who allege they were targeted for arrest because of their critical views of Phoenix police.

DOJ Findings on the TRU

The DOJ report, which extensively cited the TRU’s actions, concluded that the team’s practices were unconstitutional and retaliatory. Moore, known within the unit as the “Alpha Leader,” has faced criticism for his leadership during high-profile protests.

Despite the city’s refusal to enter a federal oversight agreement, officials have acknowledged systemic issues within the Phoenix Police Department. Chief Michael Sullivan has pledged to make the department “self-assessing and self-correcting” while emphasizing reforms to ensure accountability and constitutional protections.

City’s Response to DOJ Report

A spokesperson for the City of Phoenix did not directly address Moore’s admission but provided a detailed statement highlighting the city’s reform efforts. These include:

  • Developing a public-facing website to provide transparency around incidents mentioned in the DOJ report.
  • Creating a new Public Safety Response Team (PSRT) to handle large-scale demonstrations with officers specifically trained in de-escalation and crowd management.
  • Implementing a draft First Amendment Facilitation and Management policy, which has been shared with the community for feedback before finalization.
  • Enhancing community engagement efforts to foster better communication between law enforcement and demonstration organizers.

Broader Context

The TRU’s disbandment marked a significant step in addressing criticisms of Phoenix’s protest response. However, the ongoing litigation and Moore’s testimony raise questions about the department’s commitment to reform.

City officials maintain that they are taking the DOJ’s findings seriously. “We are implementing changes to uphold constitutional rights and improve public safety,” the statement read, emphasizing a commitment to accountability and transparency.

As the trial continues, the controversy surrounding Moore and the TRU highlights the challenges Phoenix faces in rebuilding trust and reforming its policing practices.