The Phoenix police chief is barred from disciplining a sergeant over his behavior at a student protest while a federal judge weighs whether to order additional investigation.
Phoenix police Sgt. Dusten Mullen has been on paid leave for weeks while internal affairs investigates his off-duty actions at a student protest against ICE in Chandler.
Mullen was scheduled to face discipline Monday morning. Instead there was a show-cause hearing in federal court.
A lawyer for Mullen wants the city blocked from firing the sergeant until it does more investigating of the incident.
Mullen alleges his rights to free speech and due process were trampled.
A lawyer for the city says he’s accused of making false statements to Chandler police, unprofessional conduct and provocation.