The Phoenix Police Department has terminated Sergeant Dusten Mullen following an internal investigation into his conduct during a January protest connected to immigration enforcement issues at a high school in Chandler, Arizona.
The termination follows the public release of body camera footage and police reports documenting Mullen’s involvement at the protest while off duty, armed, and wearing a mask.
Body Camera Video Captured Comments at Protest
According to reporting by ABC15 Arizona, body camera footage released last month showed Mullen speaking with a Chandler police officer during the protest.
In the footage, Mullen stated:
“My plan is legitimately to just let them all assault me, and you guys arrest them all.”
He also stated:
“I will keep it on film. I also have other people filming from a distance, so my goal would be to get all these kids in jail if they want to break the law.”
The protest reportedly involved students demonstrating over ICE-related concerns and escalated into at least one arrest.
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Chandler Police Report Details
According to a Chandler police report cited by ABC15, Mullen allegedly confronted students during the demonstration and was later asked by officers to move in order to reduce tensions at the scene.
The report stated:
“The other officers advised the male did not wish to leave the area and was in fact calling other armed persons to respond to the area.”
Police ultimately arrested a teenager during the incident for allegedly throwing water on Mullen.
However, the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office later confirmed to ABC15 that the juvenile would not face criminal charges.
Administrative Leave and Internal Investigation
The Phoenix Police Department placed Mullen on administrative leave in April pending an internal investigation into the incident.
Phoenix Police Chief Matthew Giordano announced the department’s decision to terminate Mullen following completion of the disciplinary review process.
Statement From Phoenix Police Chief
Chief Giordano released a public statement regarding the decision, stating in part:
“Since becoming Chief of the Phoenix Police Department, I have been clear about the standards of accountability and professionalism expected of every member of this department.”
Giordano further stated:
“His actions raised significant concerns about judgment and professionalism. Although he was off duty and not in uniform, the oath we take binds us to a higher standard.”
The chief stated the department concluded that continued employment was no longer viable following the Loudermill process review.
He also emphasized that public trust is maintained through “transparency, accountability, consistent expectations, and meaningful engagement with the people we serve.”
Attorney Responds to Termination
Steve Serbalik, identified as Mullen’s attorney, released a statement criticizing the investigation and disciplinary outcome.
According to the statement:
“Sgt. Mullen is disappointed by this decision, but not surprised.”
Serbalik further stated:
“While he hoped that the City of Phoenix and Chief Giordano would conduct a ‘thorough and fair’ investigation – that is not what occurred.”
The statement also indicated that legal action may follow, adding:
“It will now be up the Court to protect the rights of Sgt. Mullen and the other members of AZCOPS.”
Current Status
- Sergeant Dusten Mullen has been terminated from the Phoenix Police Department.
- The termination followed an internal investigation into his conduct at a January high school protest.
- A teenager arrested during the incident will reportedly not face charges.
- Mullen’s attorney has indicated the matter may proceed into court proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Was Sergeant Dusten Mullen on duty during the protest?
According to Phoenix police officials, Mullen was off duty and not in uniform during the protest.
Why was Mullen fired?
Phoenix Police Chief Matthew Giordano stated the termination was based on concerns regarding judgment and professionalism following an internal investigation.
Was anyone arrested during the protest?
Yes. A teenager was arrested for allegedly throwing water on Mullen during the protest.
Will the teenager face criminal charges?
According to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, the teen will not face charges.
Has Mullen filed a lawsuit?
As of this reporting, no lawsuit has been publicly confirmed, though his attorney stated the matter would likely proceed to court.
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