Audit Exposes Misallocated Funds in Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Racial Profiling Settlement

Misallocation of Funds in Sheriff’s Office

More than $200 million in expenses were billed by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office to a class-action settlement intended to address racial profiling. The settlement followed a 2013 federal ruling against the department’s past actions under Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

Auditors found nearly 72% of the spending was misattributed or misappropriated. Cable TV subscriptions, a golf cart, and renovations were among expenses charged to the settlement but deemed unrelated.

Details of the Audit Findings

The audit covered a ten-year span of spending, excluding legal costs, revealing millions in expenses unrelated to racial profiling reforms. Out of $226 million charged, only $63 million was appropriately allocated. Travel and equipment purchases were found among questionable expenses.

The auditors noted that overstating reform costs undermines the court’s credibility and misleads the public. Oversight by the Board of Supervisors was found lacking, leading to continued misappropriation of funds.

Continued Issues and Responses

The disparities persist, amplifying concerns among Latino leaders in the community. Efforts to eliminate biased policing continue amid calls from Republicans to end settlement oversight due to costs.

The Board of Supervisors and Sheriff Sheridan defended their budgeting practices following the audit’s findings. Democratic Supervisor Steve Gallardo emphasized the need for full compliance before ending oversight.

Specific Misattributions and Responses

The audit revealed misattributed staffing costs and vehicle purchases among many unrelated expenses. The sheriff’s office expensed cable TV subscriptions and other costs not linked to reform efforts.

Despite financial experts urging accountable spending, Republicans maintained local jurisdiction over financial decisions without federal court intervention.

Legal and Community Reactions

Supervisors filed a motion to end court oversight, supported by Sheriff Sheridan’s administration, while the ACLU opposed this move under current compliance levels. The motions are pending.

As discussions continue, there is a push from some supervisors to reevaluate oversight costs, examining ways to ensure accountability in spending related to racial profiling reforms in Maricopa County.