Audit Reveals Misuse of Funds in Maricopa County Sheriff’s Racial Profiling Settlement

The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office charged more than $200 million in expenses to a class-action settlement, aimed at addressing racial profiling. These charges included dubious expenses like $7,000 in cable TV subscriptions, $11,000 on a golf cart, $1.5 million for renovations in Phoenix, and $1.7 million for Tasers.

In 2013, a federal judge determined the department under then-Sheriff Joe Arpaio violated Latino drivers’ constitutional rights, prompting reforms. These include documenting all traffic stops, employing additional investigators for misconduct reports, and appointing a monitor.

Since Sheriff Jerry Sheridan’s office term, he and Republican Board of Supervisors members expressed concerns over the compliance costs, seeking an end to the Melendres v. Arpaio settlement.

The audit showed 72% of spending was misappropriated. Auditor findings revealed only $63 million was appropriately charged to the settlement.

Examples of misattributed expenses include $1,261 for boat research for desert deputies and $5,077 for attending National Police Week.

Audit scrutiny showed the county provided inadequate spending oversight, with little verification of fund usage.

An audit determined $144 million in personnel costs from 2014 to 2024 were wrongly charged to the settlement. The auditors warned potential for further misattribution, impacting taxpayers.

Despite over 90% compliance with major court orders, lingering racial disparities in traffic stops and misconduct claims remain unresolved.

Efforts to end oversight stirred controversy, with discussions between Republican supervisors and the court.

Public finance experts emphasized accountability, suggesting further audits if disagreements arise.

Only Democrat Steve Gallardo actively opposed the settlement’s end, urging compliance focus. Conflict over the settlement highlights ongoing challenges in Maricopa County.