Judge Denies Efforts to End Oversight of Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office as Racial Profiling of Latinos Persists
The post Judge Denies Efforts to End Oversight of Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office as Racial Profiling of Latinos Persists appeared first on ProPublica .
U.S. District Judge G. Murray Snow has denied efforts to remove oversight of the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, citing continued racial disparities in traffic arrests of Latinos. In a 72-page ruling, Snow emphasized Sheriff Jerry Sheridan's role in the department's racial profiling, including obstructing investigations to shield deputies and undermine remedies.
Sheridan, who was the No. 2 under former Sheriff Joe Arpaio, has been found to have abused his authority in the department's internal affairs process. Despite the monitor's annual reviews showing ongoing disparities, Sheriff Sheridan and county leaders have repeatedly sought to end court oversight, arguing the issues were no longer occurring.
Snow, however, cited data showing Latino drivers are 40% more likely to be arrested, stopped 30% longer, and 2.5 times more likely to be searched than white drivers. To end oversight, the department must remain in compliance with reforms for three years, but investigations reveal Sheridan and county leaders continue to push for its removal.
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