Phoenix Police Face No Discipline in Fake Gang Scandal

In a move that has drawn criticism from community advocates, the Phoenix Police Department has closed its internal investigation into the 2020 scandal where officers fabricated a ‘criminal street gang’ to target protesters. Despite findings that policy violations occurred, no disciplinary action will be taken against the involved officers.

Investigation Concludes Without Penalties

Police Chief Matt Giordano confirmed that three of the six employees investigated violated department policy. However, officials stated that the individuals involved had already retired before the report’s finalization, making them ineligible for professional sanctions. This outcome means that despite the identified policy breaches, no active officers will face punishment related to the incident.

The scandal erupted in October 2020 when 17 protesters were arrested and charged as members of a fictitious gang created by local police and county prosecutors. Shockingly, evidence later emerged showing officials had colluded to mislead a grand jury, drawing comparisons between activists and notorious criminal organizations like the Bloods and Crips. These baseless charges were only dropped in February 2021 after investigative reporting brought the lack of evidence to light.

Retirements Sidestep Accountability

A key figure in the investigation was Sgt. Doug McBride, who allegedly provided ‘egregious’ testimony to secure the indictments. McBride retired in December 2025, just months before the internal report was finalized, and is now collecting a substantial annual pension. While the Phoenix Police Sergeants and Lieutenants Association claims McBride did not violate policy, community groups argue that the timing of these retirements was a deliberate tactic to evade consequences.

Groups like Mass Liberation AZ have condemned the investigation’s process, calling it ‘a long, coordinated process built on deliberate delay, deflection, and institutional self-protection.’ City Councilwoman Ann O’Brien acknowledged the seriousness of policy violations that erode public trust, even as the city points to increased training and transparency measures implemented since the incident.

Ongoing Legal Battles and Calls for Reform

While Maricopa County settled its part of the resulting lawsuit for $6 million last December, the legal fight continues for two plaintiffs, Ryder Collins and Bruce Franks Jr., who are still pursuing claims against the City of Phoenix. For many of the falsely accused protesters, the lack of departmental discipline represents a significant missed opportunity for genuine police reform.

As protester Marysa Leyva stated, ‘It’s up to the community to organize and force change.’ The investigation’s outcome highlights the ongoing challenges in holding law enforcement accountable and the critical role of community activism and investigative journalism in driving reform.