Phoenix Settles Discrimination Case with Former Police Official

The City of Phoenix has agreed to change discriminatory investigation findings and close active internal investigations as part of a settlement agreement with former Executive Assistant Chief Michael Kurtenbach. In return, Kurtenbach has agreed to retire and not pursue legal action against the city. The settlement resolves allegations that Kurtenbach witnessed an assistant chief using a racial slur and failed to report it, a claim he has denied. The city has also agreed to change the findings of an Equal Opportunity Department (EOD) investigation, which had been found to have substantiated the allegation against Kurtenbach. The case raises questions about the handling of such investigations within the Phoenix Police Department.

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