Overview
- An internal review found three of six Phoenix police employees violated policy in the 2020 gang-charging episode, but the department says no discipline will be issued.
- Pinal County prosecutors informed Phoenix police in August 2025 that no criminal charges would be filed, and officials say discipline is limited to current employees.
- Most plaintiffs exited the consolidated lawsuit after a $6 million Maricopa County settlement approved in December 2024, leaving Ryder Collins and Bruce Franks Jr. pursuing claims against the city.
- ABC15’s investigation led to the dismissal of more than 40 felony protest cases and the firing of lead prosecutor April Sponsel, whose law license was later suspended.
- Phoenix police cite reforms since 2020 including mandatory First Amendment training begun in December 2025, policy updates developed with community input, and a new Field Investigations Unit.