JW Statement on Arizona AG’s Refusal to Take Action against Phoenix Police Chief for Receiving Illegal Pension Benefits

The Office of Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard recently notified Judicial Watch that due to budget cuts and “staff reductions” it will take no action against Phoenix Police Chief Jack Harris for allegedly receiving illegal pension benefits.

According to a September 26^th letter from Division Chief Counsel Donald Conrad: “We make no judgment about the legitimacy of your claims about violations of Arizona law, but given our limited resources and your organization’s stated intent to pursue these claims in court, we believe our resources can be better used to address other matters of concern to our citizens. Accordingly, this letter will serve as notice that we will decline action on this matter.”

Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton offered the following statement in response to this decision:

“How can the Arizona Attorney General’s office lack enough resources to investigate alleged illegal behavior by the Chief of Police of the state’s largest city? Attorney General Goddard needs to reevaluate his priorities. Phoenix Police Chief Harris’ alleged double dipping is of deep concern to Arizona citizens who are outraged by this apparent waste of taxpayer funds. Judicial Watch will work with the citizens of Arizona to litigate this matter directly on behalf of Arizona taxpayers.”