Former Police Chief Steve Gesell was terminated on September 14, 2023, following an independent investigation that concluded his conduct violated city policies, including insubordination. The investigation was initiated after a May 9, 2023, city council meeting where Gesell displayed inappropriate behavior. Additionally, the Arizona Civil Rights Division found that under Gesell’s leadership, the department discriminated against Officer Kiedi Dever based on sex and disability, leading to a settlement where Dever received $67,142.92 and was reassigned as a detective. Gesell filed a lawsuit against the city alleging wrongful termination, but in January 2025, a judge ruled against him, dismissing his claims.
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