Phoenix Police Avoid Discipline in Fake Gang Scandal

No officers face consequences despite egregious findings of policy violations.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:38pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Phoenix Police Department has closed its internal investigation into the 2020 scandal involving the fabrication of a 'criminal street gang' used to target protesters, with no disciplinary action taken against the officers involved. While three out of six investigated employees were found to have violated department policy, they have already retired, effectively shielding them from professional sanctions.

Why it matters

The lack of accountability in this case highlights ongoing concerns about police misconduct and the need for meaningful reform. The Phoenix Police Department's handling of the scandal has eroded public trust, and the community is calling for stronger measures to address policy violations that impact people's rights.

The details

In October 2020, 17 protesters were arrested and charged as members of a non-existent gang invented by local police and county prosecutors. Evidence later revealed that officials colluded to mislead a grand jury, comparing activists to high-profile criminal organizations. These charges were dismissed in February 2021 after investigative reporting exposed the lack of credible evidence. While Maricopa County settled its portion of the resulting lawsuit for $6 million, the police department's own review has resulted in zero active accountability.

  • The controversy dates back to October 21, 2020, when the protesters were arrested.
  • The charges were dismissed in February 2021.
  • Maricopa County settled its portion of the lawsuit in December 2025.
  • The internal report was finalized in 2026.

The players

Matt Giordano

The Phoenix Police Chief who confirmed that three out of six investigated employees violated department policy.

Doug McBride

A Phoenix police sergeant who was found to have provided 'egregious' testimony to secure the indictments. McBride retired in December 2025 and currently collects an annual pension of $98,000.

Ryder Collins

One of the two remaining plaintiffs who have kept their claims against the City of Phoenix active.

Bruce Franks Jr.

One of the two remaining plaintiffs who have kept their claims against the City of Phoenix active.

Marysa Leyva

One of the protesters targeted in 2020, who stated that the only reason there was an investigation was because of reporting and community organizations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The legal battle continues for the two remaining plaintiffs, Ryder Collins and Bruce Franks Jr., who have kept their claims against the City of Phoenix active.

The takeaway

The lack of discipline for the officers involved in the Phoenix Police Department's fake gang scandal highlights the ongoing challenges in holding law enforcement accountable for misconduct. This case underscores the importance of community organizing and investigative reporting in driving meaningful reform, as the department's internal review process failed to result in any meaningful consequences.