Phoenix PD officers referred for disciplinary review over social media
Oct 12, 2019, 9:14 AM | Updated: Oct 13, 2019, 12:07 am
PHOENIX — The Phoenix Police Department’s Professional Standards Bureau has referred officers to the Disciplinary Review Board over social media posts.
The referral comes months after an investigation began regarding posts from several employees of the department.
One employee’s appearance before the review board is being delayed.
On Friday a judge took action on a temporary restraining order that halts the process for that employee.
“The decision was not a ruling on whether misconduct took place,” said Phoenix PD Sgt. Tommy Thompson in a press release. “Rather it sets a timeline for approaching the case. We support the court’s decision and want the judge to have the appropriate time to examine the important issues with complete and accurate information.”
The Disciplinary Review Board is made up of department leaders and members of the community who offer recommendations to the chief of police.
Employees still have available appeals which include an appeal to the Civil Service Board. The CSB is comprised of five community members and can reinstate a terminated employee or reduce discipline.
Phoenix PD also said it is examining it’s social media policy as it relates to employee conduct.
“Our robust policy is a living, breathing document that continues to evolve with ever changing new technologies,” Thompson said. “We review it routinely and will update as needed.”
The completion of the Standards Bureau’s investigation comes the same day a Phoenix PD sergeant sued the department and Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams over the internal investigation.
