Phoenix PD’s statement on SB 1070

The Phoenix Police Department is reacting to the
Supreme Court’s decision on SB 1070 and reminding all
citizens they do their jobs by “policing with a purpose”
as their philosophy.

Senate Bill 1070 resulted in new state laws for Arizona.
Most of the law has been in effect since July 29, 2010. It
is the duty of the sworn officers of the City of Phoenix
Police Department to enforce all laws.

The Phoenix Police Department embraces a philosophy of
“policing with a purpose,” focused on nurturing and
protecting democracy, ensuring justice, embracing the
spirit of service, fundamental fairness, and protecting
our communities from harm. Treating people with dignity
and respect is the ethical foundation of law enforcement.

The law went into effect on July 29, 2010, with the
Federal District Court in Phoenix issuing an injunction
blocking four provisions of the law (see attached). There
are some basic facts everyone should know when discussing
Senate Bill 1070:

• The Phoenix Police Department has been enforcing
the non-enjoined portions of SB1070 since July 2010, and
will continue to enforce the law in compliance with the
Supreme Court’s decision.

• Many individuals are concerned about the effect the
United States Supreme Court ruling may have on the methods
of the Phoenix Police Department to enforce the law.
Everyone who lives in or visits our city should be assured
that the officers of the Phoenix Police Department will
enforce all laws, including SB1070, in a manner to ensure
equal justice under the law is provided to every person
irrespective of race, color or national origin.

• The Phoenix Police Department will not tolerate a
violation of any persons’ civil rights.

• The Phoenix Police Department will continue to
concentrate our resources on crime suppression efforts
specifically aimed at violent criminals and property
crimes that have negative influences on our communities.

• In anticipation of the Supreme Court ruling the
Governor issued an executive order directing the Arizona
Police Officers Standards and Training Board to provide
training for all law enforcement in Arizona. We will
continue to train the men and women of the Phoenix Police
Department on proper procedures to ensure compliance with
the highest professional standard of providing equal
justice under the law.

• The Phoenix Police Department is fully prepared to
protect all individuals who exercise their First Amendment
rights to demonstrate in a law-abiding manner, and will
treat all people with dignity and respect while protecting
the community from harm. Demonstrations held within the
scope of the laws are constitutionally protected and will
be protected by the Phoenix Police Department. Activities
in violation of state law or city ordinances will not be
tolerated.

• The Police Department and the City Attorney are
thoroughly studying the Supreme Court ruling that was
issued this morning to ensure that our officers are
complying fully with their decision.

The Phoenix Police Department, “Policing with a Purpose”.