EMPE, AZ — Newly released body camera footage reveals the controversial arrest of Chicago Police Officer Jalen Woods by Tempe Police Department officers. The incident occurred in August 2024 and has sparked significant outrage, raising questions about racial profiling, police conduct, and civil rights violations.
Woods, who was driving a Dodge Hellcat near Mill Avenue and 6th Street, allegedly “squealed his tires” for “1-2 seconds,” according to the police report. Officers claimed they smelled freshly burnt rubber, prompting them to initiate a traffic stop. However, body camera footage—recently obtained by ABC15 Investigators—shows no visible tire smoke, and the initial 30 seconds lack audio due to a recording delay.
When approached by a bicycle officer, Woods questioned the reason for the stop. The officer demanded he step out of the car, and within four seconds of compliance, Woods was handcuffed. Despite identifying himself as a Chicago police officer and presenting his ID, Woods was taken to the Tempe City jail and charged with exhibition of speed. The case was later dismissed due to “no reasonable likelihood of conviction.”
Legal and Policy Concerns
The arrest has been criticized for violating Tempe Police Department’s own policies, which state that physical arrests during traffic stops are generally reserved for DUIs, felonies involving vehicles, attempted flight, or refusal to sign a citation—none of which applied to Woods.
Furthermore, officers claimed state law mandated the impoundment of Woods’ vehicle. However, Woods and his attorneys dispute this, suggesting it was a tactic to justify an inventory search without probable cause, potentially violating his Fourth Amendment rights.
Community Response and NAACP Involvement
Pastor Andre Miller, Vice President of the NAACP of Arizona, condemned the arrest, calling it “outrageous” and “unjustifiable.” Miller pointed out inconsistencies in the police report and the absence of evidence supporting the officers’ claims.
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“Most police reports that involve overreach or misconduct contain language designed to justify actions that aren’t justifiable. That’s exactly what we’re seeing here,” said Miller.
The NAACP has met with Tempe Police to address concerns about discriminatory practices, particularly within the department’s bike unit.
Tempe Police Department’s Response
Tempe Police issued a statement acknowledging the incident and confirming an internal review ordered by Chief Ken McCoy, even before receiving a formal complaint from Woods.
“Chief McCoy ordered the review to ensure TPD personnel followed the law to the best of their ability and treated Mr. Woods as they would have treated anyone else in similar circumstances,” the statement read.
Woods plans to file a civil lawsuit against the Tempe Police Department, seeking accountability for what many view as an unjust arrest rooted in racial bias.
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