PHOENIX, AZ — Phoenix Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington is calling for accountability and transparency following the arrest of Phoenix police officers, saying the allegations against them are "atrocious" and urging anyone who had a problematic encounter with the officers to come forward.
Hodge Washington said she was first briefed by Police Chief Giordano earlier this month after the now-arrested officers were placed on administrative leave.
"It felt unbelievable," Hodge Washington said.
The vice mayor described the situation as a significant setback for community trust.
"I don't think it's a little step back; I think it's a significant step back. I think it is something we have to be intentional about reestablishing the community trust," Hodge Washington said. "The situation is unfortunate; it's actually beyond unfortunate. It's atrocious."
Hodge Washington acknowledged the impact the allegations have had on public confidence but encouraged residents to engage in finding solutions.
"The allegations are horrific to most people, and rightfully, if anyone has any concerns, I get it. But I also encourage you to be part of the solutions," Hodge Washington told ABC15. "If you have ways you think we can address this in a different manner, reach out."
She also warned of the lasting impact negative incidents can have on public perception of law enforcement.
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"A negative step is always more impactful than a positive step forward. People remember the negative. They don't remember all the times the officers have come through for them," Hodge Washington said. "This is a potential stain on the department, and it definitely happened in a community which had a level of distrust already and it just kind of furthers that."
Other city council members also weighed in on the arrests.
Council member Ann O'Brien said the allegations are deeply troubling.
“The allegations against these former officers are deeply troubling and completely inconsistent with the standards we expect from those entrusted to protect our community. I support Chief Giordano’s decision to terminate them. The Police Department's response demonstrates that misconduct will be met with accountability. The allegations are now before the courts, and due process must be respected," O'Brien said.
Kevin Robinson, a former Phoenix officer himself, said the conduct does not reflect the broader department.
“The allegations against these former officers are troubling and does not represent the men and women of the Police Department who serve every day,” District 6 Councilman Kevin Robinson said. “I commend Police Chief Matt Giordano for his swift decisions to investigate, as well as his transparency and accountability with residents. I trust his leadership in navigating this investigation.”
“What has been alleged in this case is deeply disturbing and disappointing, and it falls far short of what we should ever accept from those entrusted to serve our residents,” said District 4 Councilwoman Laura Pastor. “I am glad these officers were swiftly terminated and arrested, but accountability after the fact does not undo the damage. Conduct like this erodes the trust our residents place in law enforcement and undermines the officers who serve our communities with integrity every day. This behavior has no place in the City of Phoenix.”
Hodge Washington applauded the department's commitment to further investigate the incident and said there could be a need for more checks and balances to prevent unreported traffic stops.
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