Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams and City of Phoenix City Manager Ed Zuercher, who is set to retire in October, discuss the DOJ's investigation into the ci. Alan, the eldest, was picked up by the Phoenix Suns as an unsigned free agent and is currently plying his trade with the squad in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Here in Phoenix, Chief Williams was honored by the AZ Centennial Legacy Project as one of Arizonas 48 most intriguing women, again for her leadership in law enforcement. She received many awards, led parades and was a Woman of the Year. 2023 FOX Television Stations, from THU 12:00 AM MST until THU 9:00 AM MST, Northwest Pinal County, from WED 10:00 PM MST until THU 9:00 AM MST, Western Pima County including Ajo/Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument, Tohono O'odham Nation including Sells, Tucson Metro Area including Tucson/Green Valley/Marana/Vail, South Central Pinal County including Eloy/Picacho Peak State Park, Southeast Pinal County including Kearny/Mammoth/Oracle, from FRI 6:00 AM MST until FRI 6:00 PM MST, Chinle Valley, Chuska Mountains and Defiance Plateau, Little Colorado River Valley in Navajo County, Little Colorado River Valley in Apache County, White Mountains, Black Mesa Area, Northeast Plateaus and Mesas South of Hwy 264, from THU 8:00 PM MST until FRI 2:00 PM MST, Kaibab Plateau, Marble and Glen Canyons, Grand Canyon Country, Coconino Plateau, Yavapai County Mountains, Northeast Plateaus and Mesas Hwy 264 Northward, Little Colorado River Valley in Coconino County, Western Mogollon Rim, Eastern Mogollon Rim, Northern Gila County, Yavapai County Valleys and Basins, Oak Creek and Sycamore Canyons, from WED 1:46 PM MST until FRI 8:00 AM MST, Graham County, Jeri Williams' full statement on retirement, Looking for love? Although, I have only gotten to know her over this last year, there simply couldnt be a more deserving person for retirement.Chief Williams served her first 22 years in Phoenix and left our department as an Assistant Chief to become Chief of Police in the City of Oxnard, California. Williams returned to Arizona in 2016 and was named Phoenix Police chief. By clicking the submit button below, you are agreeing with Bobit Business Medias Privacy Policy and this outlined level of consent. "After much prayer and consideration and in consultation with my family and city leadership, I have decided to make a change," Chief Williams said in a statement. Jeri's profession has left a definite imprint on Alan. I will represent you. Phoenix police chief Jeri Williams announced on Tuesday that she was retiring. At the top of the list were implementing body-worn cameras for officers patrolling our streets and documenting every time an officer pointed their weapon at somebody. A 32-year career in law enforcement peppered with awards and accolades. Cody Jr. is away at college. Shes left big shoes to fill, but I know the Phoenix Police force has some of the most outstanding individuals, and we will find a worthy replacement to carry on Jeris legacy. The men and women on the frontlines deserve more support and resources, in an effort to make our City safer for our cops and residents.". Outside the Phoenix Police Department's downtown headquarters on Monday afternoon, the air was jubilant. Williams has attended two of Arizonas three state public universities. We, Yahoo, are part of the Yahoo family of brands. The couple told police about the doll, police admit in the statement. Travel and see things while were still healthy enough to do so. Williams' impending retirement comes after the Justice Department launched a widespread probe into the department to examine whether officers have been using excessive force and abusing people experiencing homelessness. PHOENIX With the hire of Jeri Williams as the city of Phoenixs newest chief of police came curiosity as to who she is and her history. KTARs Corbin Carson contributed to this report. In 2012, a mentally ill man was shot and killed by police in his house. She said, like you, Im disturbed by the language and action of our officer, but said the incident is not representative of the majority of the police department. "There is no mention of the pregnant mother & two daughters being held at gunpoint @ABC15 pic.twitter.com/V3921SVMFs, Zach Crenshaw (@ZachCrenshaw) June 15, 2019. There was a day they were known as Cody's wife and Cody's son," he said. Chief Williams has devoted her professional career to the city she loves, City Manager Jeff Barton said in a news release. But still not leaving public service, said Williams. She also noted the updating of policies and procedures to mirror the changing expectations and demands of the community and increased transparency with the public. Dont tell me that they were in the right because of shop lifting, wrote Cassie Larson. But frankly Im all about all lives matter. Have a story idea or tip? In a retirement announcement, Chief Williams notes some of the accomplishments she's most proud of during her tenure as Phoenix Police Chief, including: We respect your data and privacy. What they do is great and is important for the community, but who they are is why I am who I am today. It also reads that they admitted to having a stolen $.99 doll in the car and, the report reads, Ames said there was a pair of underwear that had been taken. Former Oxnard Police Chief Jeri Williams (Oxnard Police Department Facebook). By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. Who else can sit in my shoes and say, throughout the course of almost six years, weve gone through the ebbs and flows of law enforcement, and were still looking forward.. After realizing and understanding and implementing some of the presidents 21st century policing plan philosophies, all departments have had to look at what we do, and how we manage and how we enforce. After working her way up to an assistant police chief in Arizona, Chief Williams moved to Oxnard, CA, in 2011 to become chief of their department. "I am saddened by the news of Chief Jeri Williams retirement. KTAR.com. But it reads that the couple were combative and non-complaint, despite the videos all showing the opposite. RELATED: Here's a timeline of Phoenix police cases that may be investigated by the Department of Justice. When you think about law enforcement and how far weve come from the 33 years ago when I was brand new in Maryvale precinct, there were no cellphones, there were no social media, she explained. Join the New Times community and help support Copyright 2022 KTVK/KPHO. PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) The Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams plans to retire this summer, according to a tweet by the Phoenix Police Department. Williams has been a police officer for 33 years and was the first female Phoenix police chief. Phoenix needs more police officers. De-escalation training is already at the Phoenix Police Department. Were still servants to this community, and thats not going to change., Williams also described the changes social media and cellphone videos have brought law enforcement since shes been in the line of duty for over three decades. Statement from Mayor Kate Gallego on the retirement announcement of @PhoenixPolice Chief Jeri Williams. A band played in front of Phoenix police headquarters on Monday to celebrate the departure of Chief Jeri Williams. "She is from the community, she cares about her community, I don't know anybody that cares more about the people she served than she did. Its time to put family first for the moment, said Williams. After much prayer and consideration and in consultation with my family and city leadership, I have decided to make a change," Williams said in a tweet. department, thank you! Williams, a Phoenix native, started her career with the Phoenix Police Department in 1989. But police also claim the man, presumably Ames, threw a pair of stolen underwear out of the car window. Third Person Arrested in Arizona's Strangest Bestiality Investigation, Glendale Man Who Stabbed Family Charged With Two Counts of First-Degree Murder, Sheriff Paul Penzone Appeals Contempt Order That Proposed Millions in Fines, Make Way for Rachel Jones, the Next Gen of Windbag MAGA Acolytes in Arizona, Phoenix Police Shoot, Kill Two People in Deadly Start to New Year, To Cheers and a Few Jeers, Governor Katie Hobbs Takes Office Twice, Horned Frogs, History, and Sportsbooks: 4 Takeaways From an Epic Fiesta Bowl. Find out more about how we use your information in our privacy policy and cookie policy. Thank you for your service, Chief! Part 1: FOX 10's John Hook talks to Arizona Rep. Ruben Gallego, who has a unique perspective on the Russian invasion of Ukraine because he is a Marine who served in Iraq. There is never a perfect time to transition but the time feels right for me now to step aside. May 3, 2022 Late Monday, Phoenix police apparently released video it says that sows the little girl taking the doll and Ames in the underwear aisle. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams has announced that she intends to retire "this summer." A specific date was not given. I will be your representative. "Todays announcement by Chief Jeri Williams marks a shift for our city. Williams has been in law enforcement for 33 years and began her career with the Phoenix Police Department in 1989. But retired federal law enforcement officer Larry Athey from New Orleans wrote, this wasnt a one-off. Man killed in crash at Pima, Craycroft in Tucson, Prolonged rainfall leads to water rescues, road closures, Gas leak causes evacuation at Tucson home, Human smuggling suspect recaptured after escaping Border Patrol, Tucson food truck community Comida Park announces opening date at Tanque Verde Swap Meet, Court asked to void verdict against ex-officer in George Floyds murder, statement posted on the City of Phoenix website. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams. The staff and care team provide world-class care. She received her bachelors degree in fine arts from Arizona State University in 1998. Ames and Harper rejected her apology saying it was not one. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams issued an apology on Sunday following accusations of misconduct during a shoplifting incident that went viral. (Photo: Phoenix PD). We need to see cultural change in Phoenix PD. So, what is next for the police chief? Williams was also briefly suspended over the high-profile "ACAB gang" scandal, where Phoenix police and Maricopa County prosecutors brought bogus gang charges against more than a dozen Black Lives . Polar bear kills woman, boy in remote Alaska village, Just hours before the Idaho murders, another grisly scene unfolded outside Bryan Kohberger's window, In Montecito, the Million-Dollar Views Still Come With Mudslide Risks, Channing Tatum says parenting with ex-wife Jenna Dewan made them realize they were so different, Hawaii fisherman overboard, missing after hooking large ahi, Chinas population declines for the first time in 60 years, White House charges GOP with hypocrisy on Trump, Biden, Prep highlights: Career-high night helps Brighton beat Hartland in boys basketball. She's under fire as top cop, in charge of the police officers seen terrorizing and threatening to kill a young black family. While being very well-resourced, the department is still facing major challenges, including a Department of Justice investigation, and police union leadership that continues to not listen to the needs of the community and their own members. Some 300 campers stranded at an Arizona park due to flooding, 19 stolen cars found at suspected 'chop shop' in Phoenix, DPS says, DPS: Several stolen cars found at Phoenix salvage yard, Wednesday morning Arizona forecast 1-18-23, 'Like kicking a dog when it's down': DOJ investigates Phoenix homeless cleanups, 5 things the feds are investigating the Phoenix police for. local news and culture, Katya Schwenk The investigation is looking into uses of force, how officers respond to situations and alleged discrimination. Powered by. On behalf of the. pic.twitter.com/iYWtmD9PDo, Williams did not set a specific date for her last day, saying only that it will be sometime this summer. She also did not elaborate on her plans for the future. Somehow, I dont think this is the case with the Phoenix PD, but, probably should be. Phoenix PD chief disciplined, others demoted after probes into gang charges and challenge coin. An employee shot an man brandishing a gun at a gas station in Avondale on Wednesday morning, authorities said. It is no secret that the Phoenix Police Department has much work to do. A year later, Williams announced multiple officers were put on desk duty and faced possible misconduct investigations after an advocacy group published thousands of social media posts by officers in Phoenix and around the country showing racist comments and imagery. Still getting paid they earn more than $72,000 a year for desk duty.. And just last year, Chief Williams was appointed to the Arizona Peace Officer Standards & Training Board. She will be retiring sometime this summer but did not announce a specific date. Two days after the story broke, on Friday night, Williams posted a one-minute video statement to Facebook. But, its pretty clear he was fully responsible for unnecessary escalation of the incident. Become a member to support the independent voice of Phoenix After all, shes going to be running the largest police department in the area and many of decisions will affect you or someone you know. There is never a perfect time to transition but the time feels right for me now to step aside. Her passion for this community, her leadership through challenging times and her commitment to reforming and evolving the Phoenix Police Department will be missed as she makes this decision to retire.". After more than two decades of numerous assignments, he rose through the ranks and was appointed the Deputy Chief/Chief of Staff (second in command) of the agency in 2015. 2023 POLICE Magazine. "Your average major, city chief lasts about four years nationwide," said Andy Anderson, former Phoenix Police assistant chief. To help you get to know the chief a little better, we put together the following: Williams will be the first female to lead the citys police force and will take over for current Chief Joe Yahner in October, when the latter retires. I want to acknowledge that Chief Williams and her family are major pillars in our community. Williams says the decision was motivated by her family, and shes focused on putting family first in this new chapter of life. People were again incredulous saying that even if a doll was taken and a pair of underwear, the use of terrorizing force was unwarranted. "This is a critical time for the Phoenix Police Department. As a 33-year law enforcement veteran, Chief Williams has devoted her life to protecting our community. As she transitions out of a career she has served for 33 years - a majority of those years right here in Phoenix - I wish her the best in retirement and beyond. So many tremendous successes, so many opportunities. Phoenix's independent source of #WorkYourWayUp #Dreams https://t.co/NQDx8QudnV pic.twitter.com/bap334yqhy, City of Phoenix, AZ (@CityofPhoenixAZ) July 14, 2016. Since 2018 ten PPD officers have been rushed to honor health facilities. Under her leadership, the Phoenix Police Department is advancing progressive strategies essential in contemporary law enforcement. I will represent us because I think thats what law enforcement is supposed to do., We will continue to increase trust and continue our tradition of both protecting and serving our community.. Get the latest updates in news, food, music and culture, and receive special offers direct to your inbox. Last Tuesday, Williams announced she would be retiring, saying she felt called to go in a new direction. A 28-year law enforcement veteran, Williams came of age in the Phoenix Police Department but after 22 years, and making her way to the rank of assistant chief, took the job as the police chief in Oxnard, California. She was promoted to assistant chief before moving to California to. Chief Jeri Williams blazed a trail and will leave behind her success, leadership, and knowledge for her predecessor. The Department of Justice is investigating the police department on multiple fronts, including the use of deadly force, how police have handled journalists and protesters, and how officers treat homeless people. By clicking Sign Up, I confirmthat I have read and agreeto the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. I am proud to have paved the way for this department to move forward in a positive manner while at the same time opening the door for the next Chief to enter., On behalf of the men and women of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, we thank Chief Jeri Williams for her commitment and service to the Phoenix Police Department, Darrel Kriplean, the president of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, said in a statement sent to Arizonas Family. It is unacceptable not to hire officers when the City is flush with revenue and while we continue to lose experienced cops to neighboring cities offering bonuses and better pay. (Second son, Cody Jr., is a student at UCSB.) A Maricopa County justice of the . When she left that job after six years to return to her hometown and become Phoenixs top cop, one newspaper storys headline read: Chief Williams is Finally Gone And with a scorching lede that read: Lets count the bloody costs of her administration and review the tragedies she left in her wake. Nearly 200 guns were caught at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport security checkpoints in 2022, the fifth most in the country. Williams says she will retire this summer no official date has been given. Updated: 4:33 AM MST May 4, 2022. The chief also had two recent deaths on both sides of her family.". An independent report ordered by Phoenix City Manager Ed Zuercher also found that the Phoenix Police Department had "no credible evidence" to charge protesters at a Black Lives Matter rally in October of 2020 as members of a criminal street gang, and police commanders were aware there was a lack of merit to the charges. Williams publicly claimed the gang charges were a bad idea and that there was a failure by her chain of command to inform her of the decision. The Chief's impending retirement this summer represents an opportunity for improvement for the Phoenix PD. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams has announced that she intends to retire "this summer." Williams, a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Major Cities Chiefs Association and the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police, was named one of Arizonas 48 Most Intriguing Women by the Arizona Centennial Legacy Project, in partnership with the Arizona Historical Society and the Arizona Community Foundation for her leadership in the law enforcement profession. In 2016, apparently just before leaving Oxnard, was recognized as California Assembly District 44 Woman of the Year for her leadership and outstanding accomplishments as Chief of the Oxnard Police Department.. At a minimum, he should be fired, stripped of his POST certification and banned, not just from any/all law enforcement work, but any/all public employment. Copyright 2022 KTVK/KPHO. But in reality, they're people in that position and they make human decisions on a daily basis.". Williams said she is proud of several things. We wish her the best in her upcoming retirement and look forward to working with city leadership during this transition.". And Alan turned that into a career. Tune in to 12 News for the latest information. The men and women on the frontlines deserve more support and resources, in an effort to make our City safer for our cops and residents. The Fraternal Order of Police Phoenix Lodge 2 represents the interests of Phoenix Police law enforcement professionals. But also the relationships weve built within the community and have sustained those relationships even over troubling times, challenging times, she said. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know, Copyright 2023 Heavy, Inc. All rights reserved. 61. About 36 inches of snow blanketed Flagstaff during this week's winter storm, and forecasters say more is on the way in the coming days. The police escalated this situation and made it dangerous for the family and themselves for NO Reason. PO Box 24070 Phoenix, AZ 85074-4070. "prioritize family and explore future opportunities", charged with criminal gang activity in 2020. Phoenix Police Chief addresses controversial video, police misconduct allegations. What the report does not state is that police gave mixed commands, held the family at gunpoint, threatened to shoot and kill them, and manhandled, indeed assaulted, court documents allege, Ames, Harper and her baby she was holding. In August 2021, the Department of Justice announced it would be investigating the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Police Department. Hobb's proposed rolling back of school vouchers in Arizona, Netflix is hiring a flight attendant for one of its private jetsand the job pays up to $385,000, Thinx period underwear lawsuit over PFAS settles for $4 million, Helicopter crashes near Kyiv, multiple deaths reported, 300 campers stranded at Catalina State Park in Tucson due to flooding: report, Suspect shot during attempted robbery at Avondale gas station, 2 arrested months after deadly El Mirage shooting. But pulling a gun on an unarmed pregnant woman and her infant and toddler while doing the same and then assaulting her fiance, has ignited global outrage. An African-American, she is one of just 12 women running major US city police departments. PHOENIX - Arizona native Jeri Williams will become the first woman and second African American to lead the Phoenix Police Department when she becomes chief in October. A former city councilman, current Justice of the Peace, Cody Williams Sr. couldn't be happier. This is a developing story. The Arizona Court of Appeals rejected the state Republican Partys argument that mail-in voting violates the state Constitution. She oversees the largest police department in Arizona, manages 2,900 sworn officers and around 900 civilian staffers and is in charge of a $600 million-plus budget. Read the full story here: phoenixnewtimes.com/news/phoenix-shoplifting-video-brutality-family-files-claim-11312081 These videos were filmed by residents of the apartment complex where Ames and his family were accosted by Phoenix police. They ignored their training. Alan, the eldest, was picked up by the. Make a one-time donation today for as little as $1. Appeals court: Arizona early voting system is constitutional, Gas station clerks shoots armed robber, Avondale police say, Flooding strands about 300 campers inside Catalina State Park, Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams to retire this summer. Even at a time when use of force by police is questioned by many across the country, it's a conversation Jeri welcomes. All of that comes later, she wrote in her statement. By clicking Accept all you agree that Yahoo and our partners will process your personal information, and use technologies such as cookies, to display personalised ads and content, for ad and content measurement, audience insights, and product development. "After the National Anthem, say a prayer, I touch my chest, they touch their chest," he said. Williams announced her retirement in May, but as this issue went to press in mid-June, a firm date for her departure was still pending, and no interim replacement had been named. Community Message from Police Chief Jeri Williams: https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/police/1089: Police: 3/24/2020 10:00:00 PM: https://youtu.be/LxsQI3JAaxA At every game, Alan looks up to his parents in the stands. After the National Anthem at a recent Suns game, Chief Willliams was recognized at center court. After five years away running the Oxnard, California Police Department, she is thrilled to be back home, landing her dream job, heading up the Phoenix Police Department. At a time when police officers citywide are facing a surge in violent incidents and the department is transferring dozens of experienced detectives back to patrol - decimating entire investigative units - our city needs a Chief focused not merely on answering emergency calls, but on responding effectively to cut crime. She left Phoenix in 2011 to take over as the top cop in Oxnard, California. Williams served nearly six years as Oxnard, California Police Chief, joining that department in 2010, where she strengthened police-community relationships and oversaw the implementation of police body-worn cameras, her Phoenix police bio reads. Williams outlined some of her achievements while serving as the citys top cop in a statement posted on the City of Phoenix website. Just like when I felt called to do this job, I also feel called right now to go in a new direction, allowing me the rare opportunity to prioritize family and explore future endeavors. big time for the great city of Phoenix! We are a family of servants; my son is a firefighter, my husband is a judgeformer councilperson. A specific date was not given. "We've been working together as father son coach player since he was 7 years old.". You can get paid $1,500 to go on 15 first dates, 300 campers stranded at Catalina State Park in Tucson due to flooding, Girl, 13, leads Nebraska troopers on chase topping 100 mph, Texas stray dog 'miraculously' recovering after being shot eight times in nose, leg, neck, Flashes of light may help scientists predict when solar flares may explode from the sun, Athena Brownfield: Man arrested in Phoenix beat missing Oklahoma girl to death, court documents say, Super Bowl LVII: Federal officials measuring radiation in the Phoenix area; here's what you should know, Parents wage protest against Gov. My oldest boy still plays basketball. Its a good day for a chokehold, and similar comments and posts by Phoenix officers can be found here in this database. All Rights Reserved. During her time in California, Chief Williams was honored as the California Assembly District 44 Woman of the Year, thanks in part to her leadership and accomplishments as Chief. Quantum Fiber supplies unlimited data with speeds up to 940 mbps, enough to share 4K videos with coworkers 20 times faster than a cable. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego expressed her support for Williams' decision and said her top priority is making sure the Phoenix police have continued leadership. . The couple had two college-aged sons, Alan and Cody. "He's probably, out of all of us, the most creative," said Cody Sr. "Definitely," added Jeri. She has a big job. ", "On behalf of the men and women of the Phoenix Law Enforcement Association, we thank Chief Jeri Williams for her commitment and service to the Phoenix Police Department. Almost all of the pieces are in place. Contrast this with the incident the other day when Deputy US Marshals shot & killed an armed, violent, individual they were trying to arrest in Tennesseeresulting in a low end riot requiring substantial local LE backup/assistance. Its not just about that specific individual Jeri Williams, its about everyone directly underneath the Chief and who has been in the way of providing accountability and transparency to the community and very sensitive subject matters. But its more than just the de-escalation of force. Meyer wrote what has been the narrative so far: the couples child took a dollar store Barbie-like doll and the family was pursued based on that shoplifting incident. ", "Chief Jeri Williams did an amazing job at the City of Phoenix given the toxic attacks on police we have witnessed in the past two years. She spoke about her officers making contact with the couple. When I'm at a Suns game, I have family with me, so I'm just really blessed and fortunate," she said. We wish her the best in her retirement and look forward to working with city leadership during this transition., Andy Anderson, retired Phoenix Assistant Police Chief, said, I worked many years with Chief Williams, and I can absolutely say shes one of the most committed and dedicated people Ive ever worked withChief Williams is the perfect example of who should become a police officer because she did it to serve her community.. She was one of three candidates for the job. news report on a project started by a Philadelphia attorney. So the Black Lives Matter movement is a call and a cry out for us as a community, we as law enforcement to really recognize and know the importance of community connections, police legitimacy and trust and just bear respect for human life.. "It's never been more important for policing to be transparent in what they do, they're certainly under the microscope right now, wearing cameras, being scrutinized very closely about what they do, so the leaders of those organizations need to be out front," Anderson added. "It was one of the coolest things ever got to see because they not only saw her as a chief of police, but as a member of the community. How convenient that the Phoenix PD releases a video that puts the families character in doubt. @PhxPDChief. Officers at the department in 2018 shot at 44 people and killed 23 of them, leading the nation that year in police shootings of civilians. Alan replied, "I wouldn't say tempted. Bookmark +, Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams will retire this summer after 33 years in law enforcement. August 12, 2021, 6:53 PM. City of Phoenix "Everywhere I go, if I see one, I thank them, ask how they're doing. Then the full report came out, written by the officer who is heard on video threatening to shoot the family, Christopher Meyer. Williams said she was disturbed the by video but then put out a fact sheet about the case which appeared to blame the victims, at least in part. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams speaks FOX 10's Troy Hayden and Syleste Rodriguez on her plans to retire from law enforcement this summer. She has led a life of public service and represented South Phoenix with dignity during her tenure. An incident like this isnt a one off. While in Oxnard, Chief Williams oversaw the successful implementation of body worn cameras and has long been a supporter of technology and outfitting our officers with every tool they need to be successful.