Incident Overview
On June 18, 2022, Jeffrey Henderson was pulled over by Phoenix police near 19th Avenue and Dunlap. Henderson recorded the incident, fearing potential escalation. Initially, he did not realize the police were pulling him over and switched lanes to find a safe place to stop.
Escalation of Traffic Stop
Henderson stopped in a shopping center and calmly interacted with the officer at first. However, the situation quickly escalated when he questioned the reason for the stop and asked for the officer’s name and badge number. Despite his compliance, officers forcibly removed him from the car, leading to a physical altercation.
Allegations of Excessive Force
Henderson claimed that his already broken arm was further injured during the incident. He repeatedly stated that he did not consent to a search and was not under arrest, yet the officers continued their actions. His lawyer shared the incident with the Department of Justice (DOJ) as part of a broader civil rights investigation into the Phoenix Police Department.
DOJ Findings and Report
The DOJ’s 34-month investigation concluded that the Phoenix Police Department engaged in a pattern of excessive force and civil rights violations, particularly against minority and disadvantaged communities. The report highlighted that Black drivers in Phoenix are 144% more likely to be arrested or cited for minor violations than white drivers. It also noted a tendency for officers to unreasonably escalate situations.
Response from Phoenix Police
Interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan acknowledged the department’s need for improvement and the importance of addressing criticisms to enhance public relations. Despite inquiries, there has been no response from the Phoenix Police Department regarding any disciplinary actions or training for the officers involved in Henderson’s case.
