Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 1 of 16 1 2 3 4 5 6 Steven J. Serbalik, Bar #028191 STEVEN J. SERBALIK, P.L.C. 4925 E. Desert Cove Ave #116 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Telephone: (480) 269-1529 steveserbalik@gmail.com Attorney for Plaintiffs Juan Hernandez and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs, Inc. 7 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT OF ARIZONA 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 Juan Hernandez, individually and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs, an Arizona nonprofit corporation, Plaintiffs, v. The City of Phoenix, a municipal corporation; Jeri Williams, in her official capacity as Chief of Police of the Phoenix Police Department; and Shane Disotell, in his official capacity as the Commander of the Phoenix Police Professional Standards Bureau, 19 20 21 Plaintiffs Juan Hernandez and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs (“AZCOPS”) (collectively where appropriate the “Plaintiffs”) for their Complaint against the City of Phoenix, Jeri Williams and Shane Disotell, (collectively where appropriate the “Defendants”) allege as follows: JURISDICTIONAL ALLEGATIONS 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 COMPLAINT AND PETITION FOR A TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER, PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION, AND PERMANENT INJUNCTION Defendants. 17 18 NO. 1. Jurisdiction is appropriate pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §1331 because Plaintiffs bring this action pursuant to 42 U.S.C. §1983 and the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the United States Constitution. This Court also has supplemental and/or pendent jurisdiction over state constitutional, common law and statutory claims pursuant to 28 U.S.C. §1367. 2. This Court has jurisdiction of Plaintiffs’ federal law claims pursuant to 28 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 2 of 16 1 U.S.C. §1331 and 42 U.S.C. §1988. Additionally, this Court has jurisdiction over 2 Plaintiffs’ state and federal claims pursuant to Article 6, Section 14 of the Arizona 3 Constitution. Plaintiffs seek injunctive relief. 4 3. Venue is proper in this Court pursuant to A.R.S. §12-401 and 28 U.S.C. 5 §1391 as the parties are residents and entities of Maricopa County and Pima County and 6 the events underlying this lawsuit occurred in Maricopa County, an area wholly within the 7 District of Arizona. All parties are residents of and/or are doing business in Arizona. 8 9 10 11 GENERAL ALLEGATIONS 4. Plaintiffs reallege and incorporate, by this reference, their claims, facts and allegations in the paragraphs above as if set forth fully herein. 5. Defendant City of Phoenix is a governmental entity that acts through its 12 employees, agents and independent contractors, including Defendants Jeri Williams and 13 Shane Disotell. 14 6. Defendant Jeri Williams is the duly-appointed Police Chief of the City of 15 Phoenix and the head of the Phoenix Police Department (“Phoenix PD”), with ultimate 16 authority and responsibility to establish policy, practices, customs, procedures, protocols 17 and training for the Phoenix PD as an official policymaker. Her actions and/or inactions in 18 his official capacity constitute actions of the Phoenix PD and the City of Phoenix is 19 vicariously and directly liable for her wrongful conduct as alleged herein. As the 20 appointed Police Chief, Williams has official, vicarious, direct and supervisory liability 21 for the Phoenix PD’s officers, agents and employees. 22 7. Defendant Shane Disotell is the duly-appointed Commander of the City of 23 Phoenix Police Department’s Professional Standards Bureau. In this role, he transmits 24 reports and recommendations to Chief Williams and other officials in the City of Phoenix, 25 who rely upon his actions and recommendations in deciding on disciplinary actions and 26 policy interpretations. His actions and/or inactions in his official capacity constitute 27 actions of the City of Phoenix and the City of Phoenix is vicariously and directly liable for 28 his wrongful conduct as alleged herein. 2 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 3 of 16 1 8. Plaintiff AZCOPS is a statewide organization dedicated to fair 2 representation of law enforcement officers located around the State of Arizona. Plaintiff 3 Hernandez is an AZCOPS member, and AZCOPS therefore provides Plaintiff Hernandez 4 with legal representation and incurs costs and fees associated with this representation. 5 ALLEGATIONS COMMON TO ALL COUNTS 6 Juan Hernandez’s Employment with the Phoenix Police Department 7 8 9. Plaintiff Juan Hernandez is a Phoenix Police Sergeant and a state-certified peace officer. 9 10. 10 Facebook profile. 11 11. 12 13 14 15 Since prior to September 30, 2013 through today, Hernandez maintained a Plaintiff Hernandez’s Facebook postings, at all times relevant to this Complaint, were made exclusively in his private, personal capacity. 12. At no time relevant to this Complaint did Plaintiff Hernandez serve as a Phoenix Police or City of Phoenix spokesman. 13. As an employee of the Phoenix Police Department, Plaintiff Hernandez is 16 responsible for obeying any lawful City of Phoenix Administrative Regulations and any 17 lawful Phoenix Police Operations Orders. 18 14. On or about August 14, 2012, Plaintiff Hernandez posts a news article 19 opening with the sentence “Recent VIOLENCE against peaceful pro-life demonstrators 20 are BURIED by the news media in favor of coverage for Tom Cruise and Katie Homes’ 21 divorce.” This posting is attached to this Complaint as Exhibit 1, and incorporated as if 22 fully set forth herein. 23 15. On or about September 12, 2012, Plaintiff Hernandez posts a news article 24 titled “Islamists Drag Dead Body of US Ambassador in the Streets.” This posting is 25 attached to this Complaint as Exhibit 2, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 26 16. On or about August 1, 2013, the Phoenix Police Department’s Social Media 27 Policy (the “PD policy”) goes into effect. The PD policy is attached to this complaint as 28 Exhibit 3, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 3 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 4 of 16 1 17. On September 30, 2013, Plaintiff Hernandez posts a meme, beginning with 2 the statement “The Most Common Name for a Convicted Gang Rapist in England 3 is…Muhammed.” This posting is attached to this complaint as Exhibit 4, and incorporated 4 as if fully set forth herein. 5 18. On October 8, 2013, Plaintiff Hernandez posts a meme titled “You just got 6 to love the Brits.” This posting is attached to this complaint as Exhibit 5, and incorporated 7 as if fully set forth herein. 8 9 10 11 19. On December 24, 2013, Plaintiff Hernandez posts a meme titled “Recent Contributions to Science by Muslims.” This posting is attached to this complaint as Exhibit 6, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 20. On January 1, 2014, Plaintiff Hernandez posted a news article titled “Real 12 Footage – Cops Shoot Thug in the Head.” There appears to have been a picture in the 13 initial posting, but it does not appear in the reposting or in the Phoenix PD’s investigation. 14 This posting is attached to this complaint as Exhibit 7, and incorporated as if fully set 15 forth herein. 16 21. On January 1, 2014, Plaintiff Hernandez posted a news article titled 17 “Congress Throws Veterans Under the Bus for Illegal Immigrants.” This posting is 18 attached to this complaint as Exhibit 8, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 19 22. On January 9, 2014, Plaintiff Hernandez posted a news article titled “The 20 End of Christians in the Muslim World.” This posting is attached to this complaint as 21 Exhibit 9, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 22 23. On January 9, 2014, Plaintiff Hernandez posted a news article titled 23 “Military Pensions Cut, Muslim Mortgages Paid by US.” This posting is attached to this 24 complaint as Exhibit 10, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 25 24. On February 7, 2014, Plaintiff Hernandez posted a news article titled 26 “Young Christian Girl Repeatedly Raped by 15 Muslims Then Murdered.” This posting is 27 attached to this complaint as Exhibit 11, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 28 25. On March 27, 2014, Plaintiff Hernandez posted a news article titled “Two 4 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 5 of 16 1 Christians Beheaded in New Jersey by Muslim Man: Media, Silent!” This posting is 2 attached to this complaint as Exhibit 12, and incorporated as if fully set forth herein. 3 26. On or about June 1, 2019, the Plain View Project releases social media posts 4 made by selected police officers onto a public website – accessible at the time of this 5 complaint at www.plainviewproject.org 6 27. The Plain View Project’s website, at all times relevant to this complaint, 7 includes the following language: “To be clear, our concern is not whether these posts and 8 comments are protected by the First Amendment. Rather, we believe that because 9 fairness, equal treatment, and integrity are essential to the legitimacy of policing, these 10 11 12 13 14 15 posts and comments should be part of a national dialogue about police.” 28. Exhibits 1-2 and 4-12 were included in the Plain View Project’s database published on the Plain View Project website. 29. On or about June 3, 2019, the Phoenix Police Department’s Professional Standards Bureau initiated an internal investigation (the “PSB investigation”). 30. Upon information and belief, prior to the Plain View Project publication, no 16 member of the Phoenix Police Department had faced significant discipline (suspension, 17 demotion and/or termination) based upon the PD policy as applied to private postings on 18 any social media platforms. 19 31. Despite the fact that the Facebook posts were online for years, prior to the 20 Plain View Project publication, no one from the Phoenix Police Department or the City of 21 Phoenix ever identified Plaintiff Hernandez’s postings as alleged violations of any PPD or 22 Phoenix policy. 23 32. 24 25 On or about June 5, 2019, Plaintiff Hernandez received a Notice of Investigation alleging that he violated the PPD Social Media Policy. 33. On or about the same date that Plaintiff Hernandez received the Notice of 26 Investigation, he set his Facebook profile to “private” and, fearing potential additional 27 disciplinary action, he ceased reposting any news articles. 28 34. On or about June 20, 2019, Plaintiff Hernandez was interviewed, as a 5 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 6 of 16 1 condition of his employment, as part of the PSB investigation. A copy of the transcript of 2 the interview is attached to this complaint as Exhibit 13, and incorporated as if fully set 3 forth herein. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 35. During his interview, the PSB investigation only focused on four of Plaintiff Hernandez’s Facebook posts – those identified in this complaint as Exhibits 4, 5, 6 and 10. 36. During his interview, Plaintiff Hernandez explained that he was simply reposting content that he felt involved matters of public concern. 37. The PSB investigators did not provide any information as to why these particular posts were alleged to have been a violation of the PD policy, when the posts contained in Exhibits 1-2, 7-9, and 11-12 were not. 38. Exhibit 4 includes information that was widely covered in mainstream 12 media discussing shifting demographics (and common male names in the United 13 Kingdom) as demonstrated in Exhibit 14. 14 39. Exhibit 6 includes information that was widely covered in mainstream 15 media discussing statements issued by certain prominent individuals, as demonstrated in 16 Exhibit 15. 17 18 19 40. Exhibit 10 is a link to an article discussing government spending priorities, a quintessential example of a matter of public concern. 41. For all Facebook posts related to this matter (Exhibits 1-2 and 4-12), 20 Plaintiff Hernandez did not “comment” on or “create” the content at issue. He simply 21 reposted content that he identified as part of ongoing public dialogue on matters that he 22 wanted to discuss further with his friends, family and associates. 23 42. On August 17, 2019, the Phoenix PD transmitted a “draft investigation” that 24 would sustain Plaintiff Hernandez for violating the PD Policy with a “Class III” 25 disciplinary classification contemplating a suspension of 40, 80, or 240 hours without pay, 26 and/or demotion/termination. 27 28 43. After receiving the draft investigation, on or about August 26, 2019, Plaintiff Hernandez, through counsel, advised Defendants that attempting to discipline 6 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 7 of 16 1 Plaintiff Hernandez for discussing matters of public concern has a chilling effect on 2 Plaintiff Hernandez and members Plaintiff AZCOPS, and that proceeding with discipline 3 could result in legal action. 4 44. On or about September 4, 2019, and “investigative review process” meeting 5 was held with Plaintiff Hernandez and his representatives (who are members of Plaintiff 6 AZCOPS) and Defendant Disotell and other members of the PSB investigation team. 7 45. Lt. Brian Thatcher, a member of Plaintiff AZCOPS and a union 8 representative of Plaintiff Hernandez, asked pre-prepared questions (attached as Exhibit 9 16 and incorporated as if fully set forth herein) and subsequently authored a 10 contemporaneous memo documenting the answers received by Defendant Disotell and 11 other members of the PSB investigative team (attached as Exhibit 17 and incorporated as 12 if fully set forth herein). 13 46. At the investigative review process meeting, Defendant Disotell 14 acknowledged that the discipline contemplated for Plaintiff Hernandez was based 15 exclusively on PD policy, not on the Phoenix Administrative Regulation addressing social 16 media use. 17 47. Defendant Disotell further stated that the disciplinary finding that Plaintiff 18 Hernandez brought “discredit to the [Phoenix Police] department” used to justify the 19 imposition of discipline was based upon the collective impact of the Plain View Project, 20 and not exclusively on Plaintiff Hernandez’s Facebook posts. 21 48. Defendant Disotell and other PSB personnel present at the investigative 22 review process meeting were not familiar with the implications or balancing tests related 23 to free speech from public employees on matters of public concern. 24 49. Defendant Disotell and other PSB personnel present at the investigative 25 review process meeting were unable to provide any examples of any situations in which 26 Plaintiff Hernandez acted without “moral integrity” or failed to “work cooperatively, 27 courteously, but firmly with all segments of the public” (quotations from the discipline 28 investigation) other than the Facebook posts that were the focus of the investigation. 7 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 8 of 16 1 50. When asked if the conclusions contained in the PSB investigation were 2 based on individual posts or a broader assessment of the Plain View Project, Defendant 3 Disotell and other PSB representatives present stated that the Plain View Project cases 4 were viewed as a collective and that the determination to discipline and the degree of 5 discipline was based upon the collective impact of all of the posts from all of the impacted 6 employees. 7 51. On October 2, 2019, Plaintiff Hernandez was notified that a Discipline 8 Review Board would be convened to review the results of the PSB investigation and to 9 make a discipline recommendation to Chief Williams. The Discipline Review Board is set 10 11 12 13 to consider this matter on October 15, 2019 52. The Discipline Review Board is led by an assistant chief, and is also composed of commanders, peers (sergeants) and civilians. 53. The Discipline Review Board reviews the written investigation, is briefed 14 by PSB personnel and union representatives, and is allowed to ask questions of 15 investigators and union representatives. 16 54. Without this Court’s intervention, members of the Discipline Review Board 17 will be instructed that Plaintiff Hernandez’s posts are not protected and are the proper 18 basis for discipline. 19 55. Because the vast majority of PPD Sergeants and Lieutenants are members of 20 Plaintiff AZCOPS, this instruction, as part of an official disciplinary process, would have 21 a further chilling effect on the ability of AZCOPS members to exercise their First 22 Amendment rights to comment on matters of public concern (see, e.g. attached Exhibit 18, 23 Declaration of Lt. Mark Schweikert – incorporated as if fully set forth herein). 24 25 The City’s Administrative Regulation 56. Defendant City of Phoenix instituted Administrative Regulation 2.38 – 26 Social Media and Networking (AR 2.38) – on or about January 12, 2015. A copy of AR 27 2.38 is attached as Exhibit 19 and incorporated as if fully set forth herein). 28 57. Unlike the PD policy, AR 2.38 specifically contemplates that “Nothing 8 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 9 of 16 1 contained in this A.R. shall be construed as denying employees their civil or political 2 liberties as guaranteed by the United States and Arizona Constitutions.” 3 58. Upon information and belief, Defendant City of Phoenix intended to revise 4 the PD policy after the implementation of AR 2.38 to ensure it met both Federal and 5 Arizona constitutional concerns, but this revision never took place. 6 7 8 9 Damages to Plaintiffs 59. Plaintiff Hernandez suffered and continues to suffer chilling effects on his right to speak regarding matters of public concern. 60. Plaintiff AZCOPS spent thousands of dollars in legal costs and fees to 10 represent Plaintiff Hernandez in an improper internal affairs investigation that does not 11 respect the Federal and Arizona constitutional rights of its members. 12 61. Plaintiffs fear that, without this Court’s intervention, Defendants will 13 continue to inflict harm upon them by wrongfully disciplining Plaintiff Hernandez without 14 respecting his constitutional rights to speak on matters of public concern. 15 COUNT I 16 42 U.S.C. §1983 – Violation of Federal Constitutional Rights 17 18 19 62. Plaintiffs reallege each and every allegation set forth in the paragraphs above and incorporate each allegation by this reference. 63. Plaintiff Hernandez has the constitutional right to be free from a deprivation 20 of a protected interest (his right to speak on matters of public concern) without due 21 process of law. 22 64. The PD policy at issue is unconstitutional on its face, as it is overbroad and 23 has the purpose and effect of chilling otherwise protected speech by public employees on 24 matters of public concern, with no consideration of the balancing test required before a 25 public employer can restrict the speech of a public employee on matters of public concern. 26 65. The PD policy at issue is unconstitutional on its face, as it is impermissibly 27 vague, and has the purpose and effect of chilling otherwise protected speech by public 28 employees on matters of public concern. Employees reading the policy would have no 9 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 10 of 16 1 discernable standard as to which posts would violate the policy – resulting in a chilling 2 effect far greater than what is permissible under the United States Constitution. 3 66. The PD policy at issue is unconstitutional as applied, as Defendant’s 4 analysis of Plaintiff Hernandez’s posts is arbitrary, with no discernable standard as to 5 what posts will be permitted and what could relate in discipline. The arbitrary nature of 6 Defendants’ enforcement of the PD policy creates an impermissible chilling effect on 7 Plaintiff Hernandez’s participation in speech related to matters of public concern, and also 8 chills the participation of members of Plaintiff AZCOPS. 9 67. Unless otherwise specified, Defendants were at all material times acting 10 under the color of law and in their capacity as officials and agents of their respective 11 government agencies. 12 68. Defendant Williams intentionally or recklessly allowed an investigation and 13 proposed discipline action against Plaintiff Hernandez that deprived Plaintiff Hernandez 14 of the ability to contribute to conversations related to matters of public concern. 15 69. Defendant Disotell intentionally or recklessly allowed an investigation and 16 proposed discipline action against Plaintiff Hernandez that deprived Plaintiff Hernandez 17 of the ability to contribute to conversations related to matters of public concern, and failed 18 to consider or understand the First Amendment and Arizona Constitution Art. 2 §6 right to 19 freedom of speech on matters of public concern. 20 70. The City of Phoenix intentionally or recklessly permitted an investigation 21 against Plaintiff Hernandez without ensuring that Plaintiff Hernandez received proper 22 protections related to his rights under the United States Constitution. 23 71. Plaintiffs Hernandez and AZCOPS will face further damages and chilling 24 effects if Defendants are allowed to proceed with a Discipline Review Board and 25 continued enforcement of the PD policy. 26 72. The lack of a meaningful consideration of the Federal constitutional 27 concerns will cause actual damages to Plaintiffs in the form of time and money that will 28 be expended to defend against a procedurally deficient process and investigative result. 10 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 11 of 16 1 73. Defendants wrongful conduct as referenced in this Complaint constitute 2 violations of the United States Constitution including, but not limited to, Amendments I 3 and XIV, in that Plaintiffs were deprived of privileges and immunities guaranteed to all 4 citizens of the United States by being categorically deprived of their ability to participate 5 in speech related to matters of pubic concern, without proper cause, with an 6 unconstitutional motive and malice, without equal protection and without substantive and 7 procedural due process. 8 9 10 74. Defendants’ wrongful conduct both actually and proximately caused damage to Plaintiffs in the form of attorneys fees in an amount to be determined by the Court. 11 COUNT II 12 Arizona Constitution Art. 2, §6 and A.R.S. §38-1101 et. seq. 13 14 15 75. Plaintiffs reallege each and every allegation set forth in the paragraphs above and incorporate each allegation by this reference. 76. Unless otherwise specified, Defendants Williams and Disotell were at all 16 material times acting under the color of law and in their capacity as officials and agents of 17 their respective government agencies. 18 19 20 77. Defendants Williams and Disotell initiated and took part in the internal investigation against Plaintiff Hernandez. 78. The internal investigation against Plaintiff Hernandez failed to consider his 21 right to participate in speech related to matters of public concern, and contained no 22 analysis of the protections contemplated in the Arizona Constitution – particularly Art. 2 23 §6 – which states – “Every person may freely speak, write, and publish on all subjects, 24 being responsible for the abuse of that right.” 25 79. The internal investigation against Plaintiff Hernandez seeks to sustain 26 discipline against him based, in part, on speech by others contained in the Plain View 27 Project database – and not exclusively based upon the content and effect of Plaintiff 28 Hernandez’s own postings. 11 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 12 of 16 1 2 80. processes outlined in the Arizona Peace Officers’ Bill of Rights (A.R.S. §38-1101 et. seq). 3 4 Plaintiff Hernandez is a nonprobationary sergeant, and is entitled to the 81. Peace officers covered under the Peace Officers’ Bill of Rights may not be subject to disciplinary action except for just cause (A.R.S. §38-1103(A). 5 82. Just cause means the employer informed the law enforcement officer of the 6 possible disciplinary action resulting from the officers conduct…such that the officer 7 should have reasonably known disciplinary action could occur (A.R.S. §38-1101(7)(a)). 8 9 83. The disciplinary actions proposed by Defendants against Plaintiff Hernandez range from a 40-hour suspension to possible termination, and are not 10 reasonably related to the seriousness of the alleged “offense” of speaking, in his private 11 capacity, on matters of public concern. 12 84. Defendants’ wrongful conduct both actually and proximately caused 13 damage to Plaintiffs in the form of attorneys fees in an amount to be determined by the 14 Court. 15 COUNT III 16 42 U.S.C. §1983 and State Law – Unconstitutional and/or Unlawful Customs, Policies 17 and Failure to Train 18 19 20 85. Plaintiffs reallege each and every allegation set forth in the paragraphs above and incorporate each allegation by this reference. 86. Unless otherwise specified, Defendants Williams and Disotell were at all 21 material times acting under the color of law and in their capacity as officials and agents of 22 their respective government agencies. 23 87. Defendants Phoenix and Williams failed to train Defendant Disotell in the 24 appropriate, lawful and constitutional policies, procedures and protocols for investigating, 25 processing, handling and managing internal investigations under his control. 26 88. Defendants Phoenix and Williams provided either no training or such 27 inadequate training that the lack of training was the moving force behind Plaintiffs’ 28 injuries. 12 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 13 of 16 1 89. Defendants Phoenix and Williams’ failure to train Defendant Disotell 2 amounted to a deliberate indifference to the rights of persons with whom Defendant 3 Disotell came into contact with, including Plaintiff Hernandez. 4 90. Defendants’ wrongful conduct as referenced in this Complaint constitute 5 violations of the United States Constitution and the Constitution and laws of the State of 6 Arizona, including, but not limited to, Amendments I and XIV, and Arizona Art. 2 §6, in 7 that Plaintiffs were deprived of privileges and immunities guaranteed to all citizens of the 8 United States by being subjected to an unlawful investigation, with an unconstitutional 9 motive and malice, without equal protection and without substantive and procedural due 10 process. 11 91. Defendants’ wrongful conduct both actually and proximately caused 12 damage to Plaintiffs in the form of attorneys fees in an amount to be determined by the 13 Court. 14 COUNT IV 15 Negligence and Gross Negligence 16 17 18 92. Plaintiffs reallege each and every allegation set forth in the paragraphs above and incorporate each allegation by this reference. 93. Unless otherwise specified, Defendants Williams and Disotell were at all 19 material times acting under the color of law and in their capacity as officials and agents of 20 their respective government agencies. 21 22 23 94. Defendants owed a duty to Plaintiff Hernandez to use care to avoid or prevent harm caused by improperly conducting an internal investigation. 95. Defendants owed a duty to Plaintiff Hernandez to consider evidence tending 24 to lessen the likelihood that just cause for discipline existed when conducting an internal 25 investigation. 26 96. Defendants owed a duty to Plaintiff Hernandez to ensure that his rights to 27 participate in speech in his capacity as a private citizen on matters of public concern were 28 protected before recommending disciplinary action, including potential termination, be 13 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 14 of 16 1 2 3 4 pursued. 97. Defendants breached their duties by conducting an incompetent and illegal investigation into Plaintiff Hernandez. 98. Defendants breached their duties by continuing the illegal investigation after 5 they were advised, in writing, that this investigation had a chilling effect on Plaintiff 6 Hernandez’s rights to speak on matters of public concern. 7 99. Defendants breached their duties by recommending discipline based, even in 8 part, on the speech of others (other officers listed in the Plain View Project) and/or on 9 speech that is otherwise protected (i.e. reposting of articles and facts that are the subject of 10 11 12 legitimate public concern). 100. Plaintiffs in the form of attorneys fees in an amount to be determined by the Court. 13 14 15 16 Defendants’ breach both actually and proximately caused damage to PETITION FOR A TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER 101. Plaintiffs reallege each and every allegation set forth in the paragraphs above and incorporate each allegation by this reference. 102. Upon information and belief, Defendants intend to proceed with a 17 Discipline Review Board based upon the allegations against Plaintiff Hernandez on or 18 about Tuesday, October 15th, 2019. The Discipline Review Board members include peers 19 of Plaintiff Hernandez who are members of Plaintiff AZCOPS, and recommending 20 discipline based upon an unconstitutional and illegal process would cause irreparable 21 harm to Plaintiffs. 22 103. The continued enforcement of the PD Policy related to social media has an 23 immediate, continued, and therefore irreparable chilling effect on the rights of Plaintiff 24 AZCOPS’ members, and therefore should be immediately enjoined. 25 104. Without an immediate relief, Plaintiffs would incur substantial hardship, 26 including additional costs, the exposure of legal strategies, and a deficient appeal process 27 that would materially harm their protected interests. 28 105. For these reasons, Plaintiffs respectfully request that the Court enjoin 14 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 15 of 16 1 Defendants from taking any further adverse actions against Plaintiff Hernandez or any 2 member of Plaintiff AZCOPS until the Court can address the procedural, substantive, and 3 statutory concerns raised in this Complaint, and consider further interim relief after both 4 parties have the opportunity to be heard. 5 106. Although legal service of this Complaint and Petition is pending, 6 Defendants were provided with actual electronic copies of the Complaint and Petition via 7 email immediately after this document was filed with the Court. 8 9 10 107. Plaintiffs’ counsel is available for an immediate hearing regarding Plaintiffs’ request for a Temporary Restraining Order at any time after 2pm on Friday, October 11, 2019. 11 PRAYER FOR RELIEF 12 Plaintiffs pray for judgment against the Defendants as follows: 13 (a) 14 15 amount to be determined by the Court; (b) 16 17 (c) (d) (e) For attorneys fees arising from Negligence in an amount to be determined by the Court; (f) 24 25 For attorneys fees arising from Unconstitutional Customs, Policies and Failure to Train in an amount to be determined by the Court; 22 23 For attorneys fees arising from violations of state statutory rights in an amount to be determined by the Court; 20 21 For attorneys fees arising from Substantive Due Process violations in an amount to be determined by the Court; 18 19 For attorneys fees arising from Procedural Due Process violations in an For attorneys fees arising from Negligent Hiring, Training and Supervision in an amount to be determined by the Court; (g) General damages in an amount to be proven at trial, including but not 26 limited to damages to reputation, emotional distress, lost profits, deprivation 27 of constitutional rights, humiliation and attorneys’ fees; 28 (h) Costs and attorneys’ fees as may be allowed by law and 42 U.S.C. §1988 15 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 16 of 16 1 (i) 2 3 Interim and permanent injunctive relief to remedy past violations and to prevent further violations of Plaintiffs’ rights; and (j) Such other and further relief which is just and reasonable. 4 5 NO JURY DEMAND 6 7 Plaintiffs request a trial by judge. 8 9 10 RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED this 10th day of October, 2019. 11 STEVEN J SERBALIK, P.L.C. 12 13 14 15 16 17 By: /s/Steven J. Serbalik Steven J. Serbalik 4925 E. Desert Cove Ave #116 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Attorney for Plaintiffs Juan Hernandez and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs, Inc. 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 16 Oct 10, 2019+11+35 AM Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 1 of10/10/19, 2 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT OF ARIZONA Civil Cover Sheet This automated JS-44 conforms generally to the manual JS-44 approved by the Judicial Conference of the United States in September 1974. The data is required for the use of the Clerk of Court for the purpose of initiating the civil docket sheet. The information contained herein neither replaces nor supplements the filing and service of pleadings or other papers as required by law. This form is authorized for use only in the District of Arizona. The completed cover sheet must be printed directly to PDF and filed as an attachment to the Complaint or Notice of Removal. Plaintiff(s): Juan Hernandez ; Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs County of Residence: Maricopa Defendant(s): City of Phoenix ; Jeri Williams ; Shane Disotell County of Residence: Maricopa County Where Claim For Relief Arose: Maricopa Plaintiff's Atty(s): Defendant's Atty(s): Steven J Serbalik Steven J Serbalik PLC 4925 E Desert Cove Ave #116 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 480-269-1529 II. Basis of Jurisdiction: 3. Federal Question (U.S. not a party) III. Citizenship of Principal Parties (Diversity Cases Only) Plaintiff:- 1 Citizen of This State Defendant:- 1 Citizen of This State IV. Origin : 1. Original Proceeding V. Nature of Suit: 440 Other Civil Rights VI.Cause of Action: 42 USC 1983 VII. Requested in Complaint Class Action: No http://www.azd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/generate_civil_ js44.pl Page 1 of 2 Oct 10, 2019+11+35 AM Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-1 Filed 10/10/19 Page 2 of10/10/19, 2 Dollar Demand: Jury Demand: No VIII. This case is not related to another case. Signature: /s/ Steven J Serbalik Date: 10/10/19 If any of this information is incorrect, please go back to the Civil Cover Sheet Input form using the Back button in your browser and change it. Once correct, save this form as a PDF and include it as an attachment to your case opening documents. Revised: 01/2014 http://www.azd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/generate_civil_ js44.pl Page 2 of 2 Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 1 of 80 Exhibit 1 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 2 of 80 ~ HOME ABOUT DATABASE I DONATE ltf1.f!.* t*M' < Back to search SEARCH RE SULTS Juan Johnny Hernandez shared a photo. August 14 2012 ll' Post Data Ciry: Phoeni.x Posted: Aug l.J., 2012 Screenshor: May 12. 2018 Author Data Hernandez, Juan Media Research Center August 14. 2012 _, , , Like Page Recent VIOLENCE ag31nst peaceful pro-life demonstraiOfS was BURIED by lhe news media 1n favor of coverage for Tom Cruse & Kaue Holmes· divorce . Somettong teUs us~ protestocs for LIBERAL causes were attacked. lhe media would have been an over ~~ -> http /lbilly/Phsj9x ·uKE' and 'SHARE" rf you are OUTRAGED over lhe med!a·s refusal to TELL THE TRUTH' ~Share 11 Posts. 0 Comments Uid: B1uejrnan2 T ide: Sergeanr Salary: $103,916.80 Srarus: Currenr Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 3 of 80 Exhibit 2 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 4 of 80 ~ HOME ABOUT DATABASE I DONATE lt(i.fili , •••
Post Data City: Phoenix Screenshot: May 12. 2018 Posted: Media: Sep 12, 2012 [Article] THEGATEWAYPUNOIT.COM p Share Author Data Hernandez, Juan 11 Posts, 0 Comme n ts Uid: Bluejman2 T itle: Sergeant Salary: $103.916.80 Status: Current Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 5 of 80 Exhibit 3 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 6 of 80 Operations Order SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT 1. 3.27 New 08/13 PAGE 1 POLICY STATEMENT Social media provides a potentially valuable means of assisting the Department and its personnel in meeting community outreach, problem-solving, investigations, crime prevention, and related objectives. This policy identifies potential uses of social media that may be explored or expanded upon as deemed reasonable by administrative and supervisory personnel. The Department also recognizes the role these tools play in the personal lives of some Department personnel. The personal use of social media can have bearing on departmental personnel in their official capacity. As such, this policy provides information of a precautionary nature as well as prohibitions and directives on the use of social media by Department personnel. Department personnel are also expected to comply with the City’s rules and Administrative Regulations (AR) related to the use of social media. 2. PURPOSE The Department endorses the secure use of social media to enhance communication, collaboration, and information exchange; streamline processes; and foster productivity. This policy establishes the Department’s position on the utility and management of social media and provides guidance on its management, administration, and oversight. This policy is not meant to address one particular form of social media but rather the use of social media in general. 3. 4. SCOPE A. This policy applies to ALL employees of the Department. Exceptions are listed in following sections of this order and are in relation to an employee’s official duties pertaining to social media as a promotional or investigative tool, and are specifically addressed in this policy. B. This policy applies to all forms of interactive or non-interactive social media as listed in section 5 of this order, as well as future technologies of a similar nature. The policy is not intended to be limited to popular social media outlets only but should be construed to cover all such sites and technologies even those of an obscure nature. C. If employees are found to be in violation of this policy or the City’s ARs, they will be subject to the appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination. D. The Department reserves the right to inspect, to the extent necessary, any and all files and data stored in any area of the City’s network, on City owned or leased computers, on City phones, or any other City devices. The Department also reserves the right to inspect any personally owned devices used to conduct City business. Employees shall allow inspection of any such device by the appropriate City authority upon request. The failure to allow inspections may be grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination (refer to AR 1.63 for more information). GENERAL INFORMATION A. Authorization for Department Related Social Media Usage (1) The Public Affairs Bureau (PAB) commander or authorized designee approves all social media use which officially represents the Department, its subsidiaries (bureaus, precincts, units, details, etc.), and Department personnel in their official capacity. (2) The Department will have one (1) Facebook page and one (1) Twitter account. Exceptions to this policy must be approved by the City’s Public Information director prior to the creation of any new social media pages. The request will be made to the PAB commander or authorized designee through the chain of command. (3) Requests for social media access shall be submitted to the PAB commander or authorized designee through the chain of command. Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 7 of 80 Operations Order SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT 4. B. PAGE 2 (1) PAB personnel (to include the Media Relations Unit and Web Media Detail), as assigned by the PAB commander or authorized designee, are the official social media designees. (2) Precinct/bureau commanders may designate personnel as social media representatives for the precinct/bureau who may utilize those social media outlets previously approved by the PAB commander or authorized designee. (3) Department personnel representing the Department via social media outlets shall do the following: • • • • • • • • (4) Conduct themselves at all times as representatives of the Department and, accordingly, shall adhere to all Department and City standards of conduct and observe conventionally accepted protocols and proper decorum. They shall maintain the professional and dignified demeanor expected of employees of the Department in their posts, comments, shared files, videos, graphics, and/or photographs. Identify themselves as a member of the Department. Posts and comments should not be made as if they are from members of the community. Not make statements about the guilt or innocence of any victim, witness, suspect, or arrestee; not make comments concerning pending prosecutions; not post, transmit, or otherwise disseminate confidential information, including photographs or videos; not comment upon Department training, activities, or work-related assignments without express written permission. Not engage in any political activities or private business. Not make critical or disparaging comments about the Department or Department policies, activities, or personnel. Not make any comments concerning any civil or criminal cases in which the employee is or will reasonably be a witness. Respect the copyrights, trademarks, service marks and intellectual property of others. Comply with City ARs Comply with Operations Order 2.15, Micro Computers. Any Department authorized use of social media must be performed during normal working hours unless authorized by the designee’s chain of command. Overtime is not approved for social media usage outside of normal working hours unless prior approval has been granted by the designee’s chain of command. Designees may not engage in official use of social media on personal time, even when related to the Department; any such use is not authorized for overtime. Web postings containing proprietary images or materials belonging to the City or the Department are prohibited except where authorized by official designees of the Department or City. This includes but is not limited to the following: • • • D. New 08/13 Official Social Media Designees • C. 3.27 The City trademark (City bird) Department trademarks (PHXPD logo, badge, and shoulder patches) in graphic or physical form Web site banners or graphics from official City or Department web sites The Department strategy for using social media should promote the Department and its interests. (1) Each social media page shall include an introductory statement clearly specifying the purpose and scope of the agency’s presence on the website. (2) If possible, the page/s shall link to the Department’s official web site. Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 8 of 80 Operations Order SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT 4. 5. D. 3.27 New 08/13 PAGE 3 (3) Department social media accounts shall refer to the City’s Official Social Media Terms of Use. (4) Social media page/s shall be designed for the target audience/s such as youth, potential police recruits, media, target communities, or the community as a whole. (5) Use of social media should not promote a single individual’s interests except where those interests also serve the Department as a whole and only when the Department has specifically authorized the promotion of that individual’s interests. (6) Department personnel authorized to use social media must manage the posts they make on their pages as well as any comments made and/or deleted on their pages. Refer to the City’s Records Retentions Schedule for detailed information regarding records maintenance and handling. (7) When using any form of media or social media on duty, in an official capacity, or as a representative of the Department, employees must adhere to all state laws governing the release of information and records. (8) As public employees, Department personnel are cautioned that work-related speech (any speech made pursuant to their official duties and owing its existence to the employee’s professional duties and responsibilities) receives much less protection under the First Amendment than purely personal speech and may form the basis for discipline if the speech is deemed detrimental to the Department. DEFINITIONS A. Blog B. Comment C. Data Extraction D. Follow E. Off Duty F. On Duty G. Page H. Post I. Re-Tweet J. Social Media K. Social Networking A self-published diary or commentary on a particular topic that may allow visitors to post responses, reactions, or comments. The term is short for “Web log.” A remark in text or video expressing an opinion or reaction to information presented on a web page such as in response to a news article or other post The process of finding and extracting useful data from various social media and internet related sources. This is often used as an investigative tool as suspects often post information about their crimes on social media web sites. On the Twitter web site "following" someone means you will see their tweets (Twitter updates) in your personal timeline. Twitter lets you see who you follow and also who is following you. Followers are people who receive other people's Twitter updates. Any time an employee is not on duty as defined in 5.F below (also defined in Operations Order 1.3) Any time an employee is actively engaged in the performance of regularly assigned duties, when in the performance of a special mission for the Department, or when involved in any incident requiring the employee to act in the capacity of a police officer (also defined in Operations Order 1.3) The specific portion of a social media website where content is displayed and managed by an individual or individuals with administrator rights Content an individual shares on a social media site or the act of publishing content on a site. Profile: Information that a user provides about himself or herself on a social networking site. To repost another user's message on the social networking website Twitter A category of internet-based resources that integrate user-generated content and user participation. This includes, but is not limited to, social networking sites (Facebook, MySpace, Google+), microblogging sites (Twitter, Nixle), photo and video sharing sites (Flickr, YouTube), wikis (Wikipedia), blogs, and news sites (Digg, Reddit). Social Networks: Online platforms where users can create profiles, share information, share files, share videos, share video clips, and socialize with others using a range of technologies. The development of social and professional contacts; the sharing of information and services among people with a common interest Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 9 of 80 Operations Order SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT 5. M. Tweet N. Vlog O. Web Page P. Web Site Q. Wiki PAGE 4 Expression or communication of thoughts or opinions in spoken words, in writing, by expressive conduct, symbolism, photographs, videotape, or related forms of communication A posted message on the social networking website Twitter Similar to blog except it is presented as a video instead of text See 5.G above A site (location) on the world wide web (www). Each web site contains a home page, which is the first document users see when they enter the site. The site might also contain additional documents and files. Each site is owned and managed by an individual, company or organization. This is a broadly used term generically covering the various social media sites as well as news, information, and other similarly organized locations on the world wide web. Web page/s that can be edited collaboratively. Wikipedia is a well known example but wiki can be dedicated to any topic. PUBLIC AFFAIRS BUREAU USE A. Official social media designees who are authorized to use social media on behalf of the Department must use Department-issued, City-issued, or authorized personal devices when posting, commenting, or engaging in any type of social networking. The use of unauthorized personal devices is strictly prohibited. B. Social media can be used for community outreach and engagement by: • • • • C. D. Providing crime prevention tips (burglary prevention, Block Watch, drowning, drug awareness, etc.) Offering online-reporting opportunities Sharing crime maps and data Soliciting tips about unsolved crimes (Silent Witness) Social media can be used to make time-sensitive notifications related to: • • • • • Road closures Special events (community meetings, Coffee with a Cop, press conferences) Weather emergencies (monsoon, dust, heat, etc.) Missing or endangered persons Police incidents that might affect the surrounding community Any other Department related information of general interest to the community, such as: • • • • 7. New 08/13 DEFINITIONS (Continued) L. Speech 6. 3.27 Commander rotations Changes to precincts (boundaries, additions, events) Awards and commendations or other positive recognition received by the Department or employees that reflects well on the organization as a whole Line of duty incidents OTHER AUTHORIZED USE A. Those units authorized by PAB to use social media for community outreach and engagement are limited to the following use: • • • Special events (community meetings, Coffee with a Cop, G.A.I.N., etc.) Non-criminal traffic related incidents (road closures due to non-criminal related accidents, downed power lines, etc.) Weather emergencies (monsoon, dust, heat etc.) Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 10 of 80 Operations Order SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT 8. New 08/13 PAGE 5 INVESTIGATIVE USE A. Social media is a valuable investigative tool when seeking evidence or information about: • • • • • • 9. 3.27 Missing persons Wanted persons Gang participation Graffiti Crimes perpetrated online (cyber-bullying, cyber-stalking, fraud, etc.) Photos or videos of a crime posted by a participant or observer. B. Social media use by investigators of a public nature must be approved by the PAB commander or authorized designee. Social media use of an investigative or undercover nature must receive prior approval through the precinct/bureau commander/administrator. C. Social media use not of a public nature (data extraction, undercover work) must comply with Operations Order 2.15.10.B related to using the internet as an investigative tool. For example, if an investigator wished to use the Department’s social media presence to request information about a crime from the community, it requires approval from the PAB commander or authorized designee. However, if an investigator wishes to use a social media site to obtain evidence of a crime through investigative work, it does not. D. Employees are prohibited from using personal cell phones or any personally owned recording device of any type, other than those pre-approved by the Department, to record, upload, transfer, or share crime scene photographs or any other items of evidence obtained in the course of their duties, except in furtherance of an authorized departmental criminal or internal investigation. E. Employees are reminded any personal electronic devices used on duty and/or in an official capacity may be subject to review, subpoena, discovery, public records requests, and/or impound for possible evidentiary value. PERSONAL USE A. B. Department personnel are cautioned their speech and related activity on social media sites may be considered a reflection upon their position, and, in some instances, this Department. (1) When using social media, Department personnel should be mindful their speech becomes part of the worldwide electronic domain. Therefore, adherence to City and Department policies is required in the personal use of social media. Employees are prohibited from using social media in a manner that would cause embarrassment to or discredit the Department in any way. (2) Employees are responsible for their social media postings if they are found to be in violation of any City or Department policy. (3) Employees may not use social media to harass, discriminate, bully, retaliate, etc. Personal social media activity must not interfere with work duties or the operation of the Department. (1) Employees are prohibited from posting on any networking or internet site any photographs, video, or audio recordings taken on Department property and/or in the performance of official duties (including official Department training, activities, or work specific assignments) that are detrimental to the mission and functions of the Department, that undermine respect or public confidence in the Department, could cause embarrassment to the Department or City, discredit the Department or City, or undermine the goals and mission of the Department or City. Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 11 of 80 Operations Order SOCIAL MEDIA USE POLICY PHOENIX POLICE DEPARTMENT 9. B. C. 3.27 New 08/13 PAGE 6 (2) Employees are prohibited from posting any information or commenting about ongoing criminal investigations, administrative investigations, criminal cases, civil lawsuits, or police incidents involving the City on any media site, website, or the internet without prior approval from their commander/administrator. (3) Any employee using the City’s network for personal use does so at the employee’s own risk. Use of the City’s network for personal purposes to the extent that such use compromises security or impedes City business in any manner, including a decrease in employee productivity, may subject the employee to disciplinary measures up to and including termination. (4) Employees have no expectation of privacy for any personal communications or information sent or received via the City’s network or City’s devices. (5) Employees who work in undercover operations shall not post any form of visual or personal identification (6) Department personnel are free to express themselves as private citizens on social media sites to the degree that their speech does not impair working relationships of this Department, are detrimental to the mission and functions of the Department, that undermine respect or public confidence in the Department, cause embarrassment to the Department or City, discredit the Department or City, or undermine the goals and mission of the Department or City. (7) Department personnel may not divulge information gained while in the performance of their official duties; make any statements, speeches, appearances, and endorsements where the employee is acting or appearing to act in an official capacity or as an official representative of the Department or City; or publish materials that could reasonably be considered to represent the views or positions of this Department without express authorization. For safety and security reasons, Department personnel are cautioned not to disclose their employment with this Department. As such, Department personnel are cautioned not to: • • Display Department logos, uniforms, or similar identifying items on personal web pages. Post personal photographs or provide similar means of personal recognition that may cause them to be identified as an employee of this Department. D. Department personnel should be aware privacy settings and social media sites are constantly in flux, and they should never assume that personal information posted on such sites is protected. Personnel are reminded even the strongest privacy settings cannot prevent an approved “friend” or authorized recipient from independently choosing to forward or re-post the information worldwide. E. Department personnel should expect any information created, transmitted, downloaded, exchanged, or discussed in a public online forum may be accessed by the Department at any time without prior notice. 10. RELATED POLICIES, STANDARDS, AND PROCEDURES • • • • • • • AR 1.61 – Records Management Program AR 1.63 – Electronic Communications and Internet Acceptable Use AR 1.90 – Information Privacy and Protection AR 1.92 – City Presence on the Internet AR 1.95 – Privacy Program Information Technology Standard (s) 1.2.1 – Requesting Access to Blocked Web Sites s1.10 – Collaborative Web Technologies Usage Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 12 of 80 Exhibit 4 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 13 of 80 ~ HOME ABOUT DATABASE I DONATE .,y Post Data City: Phoenix Posted: Sep 30,2013 Screensh ot: May 12. 2018 Author Data Hernandez, Juan Ban Sharla Law In Your Sl Share 11 Posts, 0 Comm ents Uid: B1uejman2 Tide: Sergeant Salary: $103.916.80 Status: Current Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 20 of 80 Exhibit 8 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 21 of 80 ~ HOME ABOUT DATABASE DONATE ltlirb* f*M' < Back to search SEARCH RESULTS Juan Johnny Hernandez shared a lmk. Post Data City: Phoeni.x Screenshot: May 12. 2018 Posted: Jan 3, 2014 Media: [ Anic1e] Author Data Hern andez, Juan Congress Throws Veterans Under The Bus For lllegal Immigrants I have a column up at Brellbart called, Congress Throws Veterans Under The Bus For lllegallmmigants. Here's an excerpt from the column. In Washington, hIS often said... RIGHTWINGNEWS COM ~Share 11 Pos t s, 0 Comme n t s Uid: B1uejman2 T itle: Sergeant Salary: $103.916.80 Statu s: Currem Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 22 of 80 Exhibit 9 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 23 of 80 • HOME ABOUT DATABASE I DONATE t•o• World > Middle East Driving a car 'damages women's ovaries and leads to children with clinical problems', according to a senior Saudi cleric As debate over the ban on women drivers in Saudi Arabia intensifies, one of the country's most inftuential conservative religious leaders weighs in citing 'physiological medical studies' Adam Withnall l @adamwit hnalll Monday 30 September 2013 17:44 I © OOe · news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8631775.stm Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 51 of 80 Page last updat ed at 11:06 GMT, Tuesday, 20 April 2010 12:06 UK News Front Page i:l E-mail this t o a friend Iranian cleric blames quakes on promiscuous women Africa Americas Asia - Pacific Eur ope Middle East South Asia UK Business Health Science & Environment Technology Entertainment Also in the news Video and Audio Programmes Have Your Say In Pictures Country Profiles Special Reports Related BBC sites Sport ~ Printable version I Women who wear revealing clothing an d behave promiscuously are to blame for earthquakes, an Iranian cleric says. Hojjat ol-eslam Kazem Sediqi, t he acting Friday prayer leader in Tehran, said women should stick to strict codes of modesty to protect t hemselves. SEE ALSO • Quake experts urge Tehran move 14 Mar OS I Middle East • Quake inj ures 35 in western Iran 07 Mar 07 1 Middle East • Iranian earthquake 'kills 20,000' 27 Dec 03 1 Middle East • In pictures: Iran earthquake 22 Feb OS 1 I n Pictures More than 2S,OOO people died in t he Bam quake "Many women who do not dress modestly lead young men ast ray and spread adultery in society which increases earthquakes," he explained . Tens of thousands of people have died in I ran earthq uakes in the last decade. Mr Sediqi was delivering a televised sermon at the Tehran Universit y campus mosque last Friday on the need for a "general repe ntance" by I ran ians when he warned of a "prevalence of degeneracy". "What can we do to avoid being buried under the rubble? There is no other solution but to take refuge in re ligion and t o adapt our lives t o Islam's mora l codes," he said. • How earthquakes happen 01 Jun 09 I Science & Environment RELATED INTERNET LINKS • New Scientist 's earthquake homepage • US Geological Earthquake Cent er The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites TOP MIDDLE EAST STORI ES • Iranian scient ist 'heading home' The eart is flat. Whoever Document claims it 1-2 is round is an atheist deserving Caseh2:19-cv-05365-MTL Filed 10/10/19 Page 52 of 80 of punishment. That is a well-known religious edict, or fatwa, issued two years ago by Sheik Abdel-Aziz Ibn Baaz, the supreme religious authority of Saudi Arabia. The blind theologian's status gives his fatwas great weight, though his opinions have often raised eyebrows or https:// www.nytimes.com/1995/02/12/world/muslim-ed icts-take-on-new-force.ht m I Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 53 of 80 J .s.-1 CP.I""\i -,v~'n#J"t • Was this case also evaluated in the context of Administrative Regulation 2.38Social Media & Networking, which contemplates constitutionally protected speech? ~, V'-1~ <;"0-(.c t c .._. ( 3,'":1.'7 " • How were those criteria applied to each individual post in this case? • Were the initial posts flagged by investigators reassessed in the aftermath of Sergeant Hernandez's interview to determine the degree to which they related to matters of public concern? :!> r " s-I..(Rc 'i'-r+os[_ f> ,s c..ts!: . ~ / I.S 'tv.::>~:: /'~.-a l-tt. C 1 fit (,...f;,~'L vffl ~ f /1 v& 1.-..V~ i /\ /) 1 r;, C"' ~~ 13 .1\S • How was the decision as to where to classify Sergeant Hernandez's posts on the discipline scale made? S vP!:.Ao./1 0 J"ts HtJJ 'ft.> '11 ~ ~~ t.~ CO,/'I'.'"fAI Orr... "fW; fe:J;.'IS • Was the "discredit to the department" used to justify the imposition of discipline in this case based upon the collective impact of the dozens of employees and hundreds of posts identified by the Plain View Project or an individual assessment of Sergeant Hernandez and the four posts that were selected for investigation by PSB? fr.J'll-l. Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 56 of 80 Exhibit 17 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 57 of 80 This memorandum was drafted by Lieutenant Thatcher contemporaneous to the IRP Conference related to Internal Investigation #19-0070 involving Sergeant Hernandez which was conducted at the Phoenix Police Department’s Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) on 9/4/19 at 1300 hours. Attendees: Commander Disotell (PSB) Commander Diponzio (SMP) Lieutenant Pagone (PSB) Sergeant Robidoux (PSB) Lieutenant Leuschner (PPSLA) Lieutenant Thatcher (PPSLA) Sergeant Hernandez (SMP) The meeting began with Lt Thatcher reading through a list of questions which is included in the case file for reference. When PSB investigators were asked to elaborate on who created the criteria used to evaluate various social media posts related to the Plain View Project (PVP), the response from Lt Pagone was “everybody.” He then continued that “a lot of different people” were involved in evaluating the content. He confirmed that City Legal was one of the entities consulted but did not elaborate further on their involvement. When PSB investigators were asked to elaborate on the criteria used to evaluate the individual posts, Lt Pagone responded, “Everyone’s mindset came together.” He indicated that there was consensus about which posts would be investigated and which would be cast aside but did not give any indication of what objective criteria were used to support that determination. When asked if investigators based their analysis on Operations Orders 3.27 or if they also considered Administrative Regulation 2.38, Cmdr Disotel indicated, “We stuck to 3.27.” Given that there were no articulated objective criteria for evaluating the posts, investigators did not respond to the question regarding how the criteria had been applied to individual posts. When asked if the posts flagged by investigators during their initial assessment were reviewed following the interview with Sergeant Hernandez, Lt Pagone responded, “I’m sure those discussions took place.” He indicated that City Legal would have been involved in those discussions. When asked to explain how individual posts were classified on the discipline scale, the original response from Lt Pagone was that “supervisors are held to a higher standard” and that is why their posts were Class III violations. Cmdr Disotell then added that not all supervisors were 1 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 58 of 80 classified as Class III and pointed out that Sgt Stefani Gombar’s post was classified as a Class II violation. He added that the classification was primarily based upon the content of the posts. When asked if the “discredit to the department” used to justify the imposition of discipline was based upon the collective impact of the Plain View Project or the content of each individual post, the answer was that the emphasis was the collective impact of all the posts from all the implicated employees. We then reviewed the draft investigation focussing on the comments made by PPSLA. PSB acknowledged that none of the cited news articles referenced Sgt Hernandez specifically but several of them linked to the PVP website which would have enabled readers to view his social media posts. Investigators seemed unfamiliar with the concept of free speech from public employees related to matters of public concern. PSB investigators were unable to provide an example of a situation in which Sergeant Hernandez acted without “moral integrity” or failed to “work cooperatively, courteously, but firmly with all segments of the public” other than the social media posts that were the focus of this investigation. When asked if the conclusions were based on individual posts or a broader assessment, PSB investigators reiterated multiple times that the Plain View Project cases were viewed as a collective and that the determination to discipline and the degree of discipline was based upon the collective impact of all the posts from all the impacted employees. 2 Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 59 of 80 Exhibit 18 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 60 of 80 DECLARATION OF MARK SCHWEIKERT Mark Schweikert, pursuant to 28 USC § 1746, and under penally of perjury, declares and says: 1. 1 have not been convicted of u fel o ny in any jurisdiction. 2. I am over 18 yenrs of age. 3. I am employed us a Phoenix Police Lieutenant. 4. I was actively involved, in my private capacity, in posting to Facebook. 5. I am familiar with Operations Order 3.27 - the Phoenix Police Department's Social Media Policy. 6. I also am familiar with the "Plain View Project" and the subsequent internal investigation that the Phoenix Police Department launched after the Plain View Project database went public. 7. Prior to the Plain View Project Lntemal Investigation, I believed that I could exercise my legal right to speak, in my private capacity, on social media related to matters of public concern without the fear of disciplinary action. 8. I learned that the Phoenix Police Department is now disciplining some members of the Department under Operations Order 3.27 - and is considering sanctions ranging from suspension up to potential termjnation. 9. After reading the social media policy, I am not able to discern what posts the Department would consider a violation of its social media policy. 10. The Department's decision to attempt to discipline officers and supervisors for participating in conversations related to matters of public concern bas made me reluctant to post information related to politics and certain news stories. 11. I have refrained from exercising my constitutional rights to speak on social media related to politics and certain news stories because I believe that the Department would attempt to discipline me for this type of speech. The information contained in this declaration is based upon my own personal knowledge. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on: ~~ - /K&!/'2-,- Mark Schweikert Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 61 of 80 Exhibit 19 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 62 of 80 City of Phoenix A.R. NUMBER ADMINISTRATIVE REGULATION r.s~u=s~JE=c=T----------------------------------------------~ 2.38 NEW FUNCTION Human Resources and Payroll 1m8 ~E=F=FE=c=T~IV=E~DA~T=E--------~ SOCIAL MEDIA AND NETWORKING I. January 12, 2015 REVIEW DATE PURPOSE To address the fast-changing landscape of the Internet and the way people communicate and obtain information online, the City of Phoenix uses social media tools to reach a broader audience. Communicating with our diverse audiences is important to the City, and we recognize the value of using social networking to enhance the way we engage with our customers, build new relationships, and initiate conversations about City services. The City encourages the use of social media to further the goals of the City and the missions of its departments, where appropriate. · Social media sites allow anybody to post anything, and anything posted on the Internet can stay online forever. The City has an overriding interest and expectation in deciding what is communicated on behalf of the City on social media sites. This policy establishes procedures for the use of social media, guidelines for referencing the City on social media platforms, and addresses social media in general. Nothing contained in this A.R. shall be construed as denying employees their civil or political liberties as guaranteed by the United States and Arizona Constitutions. Nothing contained in this A.R. shall be construed as interfering with the rights of employees and employee organizations under the City's Meet and Confer Ordinance. In addition, nothing contained in this A.R. shall be construed as interfering with the rights of employees and employee associations under the City's Meet and Discuss Ordinance. II. APPLICABILITY This A.R. provides information to all employees. Additional direction is provided to employees who are authorized to speak on behalf of the City of Phoenix; however, all employees should be aware of the City's guidelines regarding use of social media for official City business Some departments, such as City Clerk, Fire, Law, Municipal Court, and Police, may have policies with additional provisions and requirements. Employees should check with their management with questions or concerns about their policies. Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 63 of 80 A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 2 of 8 Ill. DEFINITIONS App - An application that can be downloaded for use on a desktop or mobile device. City - Refers to the City of Phoenix. City Business -All work performed that has a direct relation to the City's operation and activities. City business also includes authorized activities of labor unions and labor associations in coordination with management. City Spokespersons- City employees who are authorized by the City Manager's Office to speak on the City's behalf. Includes City department and function heads and their designees. Comment - A response that is provided as an answer or reaction to a post or a message on social media sites. Personal Site- A profile created on a social media platform by an individual for personal use and to share personal communication with friends and acquaintances. Personal sites do not include social media sites of labor unions, labor associations, or groups and organizations of City employees. Platform -The software or technology that helps users to build, integrate or facilitate community, interactive and user-generated content. For example, a blog or a wiki is a social media tool, but the technology used to create and host them, such as Facebook or Twitter, is considered the platform. Post- Content a person shares on a social media site or the act of publishing content on a site. Professional Networking - A type of social media service that is focused solely on interactions and relationships of a business and professional nature rather than including personal, nonbusiness interactions. Professional networking sites allow users to make connections through which they can find jobs, and also allow other users and possible employers to view profiles and share recommendations. Additionally, these sites allow professionals from different fields of interest to ask questions and share opinions and knowledge. Linked In is an example of a professional networking site. Profile- Information provided about a person or an entity on a social media site. A person's social media profile is generally created by that individual. Public Record -A record made or maintained by a City employee in the performance of that employee's job, to memorialize official transactions, or as required by law. Repost- Content an individual shares on a social media site that is created or generated by someone else or the act of publishing content on a site that is created or generated by someone else. Social Media- Refers to the interaction among people in which they create, share, and/or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks. Social media is the Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 64 of 80 A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 3 of 8 collective of online communication channels dedicated to community-based input, interaction, content-sharing and collaboration. Websites and applications dedicated to forums, blogging, social networking, professional networking, and wikis are among the different types of social media. Social media includes social networking and professional networking sites. Social Networking -The practice of expanding social contacts by making connections through individuals. A social networking service is a platform to build social networks or social relations among people who may share interests, activities, backgrounds or real-life connections. A social networking service consists of a representation of each user (often a profile), social links, and a variety of additional services. Social networking allows individuals to create a profile, create a list of users with whom to share connections, view and cross the connections within the system, and share information, photos, links, and items of interest. Examples include Facebook, Google+, lnstagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, Twitter and YouTube. IV. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Employees are responsible for understanding and complying with this A.R. 2. Department Directors and Function Heads are responsible for authorizing official City spokespersons for their departments and for notifying the Public Information Director about these employee assignments. 3. Department Directors and Function Heads are responsible for ensuring their employees comply with this A.R. 4. The City Clerk Department is responsible for the City's Records Management Program, including retention requirements related to social media. 5. The Human Resources Department is responsible for providing guidance regarding appropriate employee behavior on social media. 6. - The Public Information Office is responsible for providing guidance on how social media is used to represent the City. V. POLICY STATEMENTS- All Employees 1. Personal Social Media Presence. Employees may express themselves as private citizens on social media sites. An employee's use of any social media site must comply with copyright laws, data security and privacy regulations, criminal laws, and any other applicable federal, state, and local law. 2. Privacy and Social Media. Social media and Internet use should not be considered anonymous. Employees should .be aware that privacy settings for social media sites are constantly in flux, and they should not assume that personal information posted on such sites is protected. Published social media content may be explored, transmitted, stored, and archived by external entities. Even the strongest privacy settings cannot prevent an approved friend or authorized recipient from independently choosing to forward or repost the information. There is no such thing as a "private" social media site. Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 65 of 80 A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 4 of 8 For example, while personal social media privacy settings may be adjusted so only friends or authorized individuals can view content, those same individuals can forward comments, posts, and pictures to anyone, or they could take screenshots of what is posted. As a result, what i~posted on a personal social media site may be forwarded to co-workers and supervisors, which could negatively impact the work environment or have consequences in the workplace. Personal social media postings that relate to co-workers, other City employees, supervisors, or management, or activities that occur at work, can be considered as part of human resource or equal opportunity investigations and Notices of Inquiry. Keep the "headline test" in mind when posting content or pictures to social media sites. Use your best judgment - if it is not something you would feel comfortable seeing in the media, or being seen by co-workers, other City employees, supervisors, or management, do not post it. 3. Speaking on Behalf of the City. Only those employees specifically authorized by City management may speak on behalf of the City. Employees must not mislead the public to believe the employee is an official City spokesperson if they are not authorized to function in this capacity. 4. Identification of City Employment in Social Media. Employees who participate in social networking and professional networking sites may decide to include information about their work with the City of Phoenix as part of their personal profile, as it would relate to a typical social conversation. This may include: a. work information included in a personal profile, to include City name, job title, and job duties; b. status updates regarding an employee's own job promotion or other professional or work-related advancements, achievements, and honors; and c. personal participation in City-sponsored events, including volunteer activities. 5. Perception. With social media, the lines between public and private, personal and professional can be blurred. Employees identifying themselves as working for the City should be mindful that they may be creating perceptions about themselves and about the City by customers, business partners, and the general public, and perceptions about themselves by co-workers, other City employees, supervisors, and management. Employees must not represent or speak on behalf of the City on their personal social media sites when they are not authorized to do so. Employees must not give the appearance that they are speaking on behalf of the City or posting comments as an official City representative on personal social media sites, when they are not authorized to speak on behalf of the City. This perception may be avoided by choosing to not post work-related information, featuring themselves while wearing a City uniform or displaying the City logo, public safety patches, badges, or City vehicles on a personal site - especially in profile images. These actions could cause people to believe employees are posting as authorized City spokespersons, official City representatives, or on behalf of the City of Phoenix. Permitted and prohibited uses of City of Phoenix logos and symbols is set forth set forth in A.R. 1.87, entitled "Use of the City of Phoenix Corporate Symbol." Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 66 of 80A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 5 of 8 6. City Business, City Time, and City Resources. Employees must be engaged in City business while at work or while on City time. Accessing and posting to a personal social media site while at work or while on City time is not appropriate. Employees should not use their City of Phoenix e-mail addresses for communication on their personal social networking sites. 7. Reposting. Employees may repast official City information and posts on their personal social media sites on their own time and using their own devices. Employees may choose to share and repast City news, events, and information from the City's website, pages, and social media sites or choose to become a fan of the various City and Department Facebook pages, Twitter accounts, and other social media sites. Employees also may visit the City's "Current City News" page for a comprehensive list of daily news headlines and social media sites. Linking directly to the City's website is the most effective way to share complete information. 8. Confidential or Proprietary Information. Social media postings that contain proprietary images or materials belonging to the City are prohibited except where authorized by official designees of the City. This includes, but is not limited to, Personal Identifying Information of individuals, Restricted City Information, and information about City business development, partnership negotiations and projects, investigations, or procurements. Examples and definitions of Personal Identifying Information and Restricted City Information are set forth in A.R. 1.90, entitled "Information Privacy and Protection." Employees may not disclose information on any social media network that is confidential to the City or its employees or that is protected by data privacy laws. Employees may not post any nonpublic images of City premises and property, including floor plans. 9. Decorum and Electioneering. City employees must be mindful of policies and procedures regarding City elected officials or candidates running in a City Election. City employees may not engage in political activities involving City of Phoenix municipal elections, including recall elections, for Mayor and City Council except as set forth as "Permitted Activities" in A.R. 2.16. Permitted Activities for City elections include: registering and voting in any City election; privately expressing an opinion on candidates for Mayor and City Council; and being politically active in connection with a charter amendment, bond issue, referendum, or issue of similar character. These activities are permitted for an individual on his or her own time, but are not permitted while on duty, on any City property, or when the individual is in a uniform normally identified with the City of Phoenix. City employees may not participate in any way whatsoever in campaign activities for candidates for the Mayor and City Council. Examples of Permitted Activities and Prohibited Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 67 of 80A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 6 of 8 Activities for City Elections, as well as National, State, and County Elections are set forth in A.R. 2.16, entitled "Political Activity- Time Off to Vote." VI. POLICY STATEMENTS- City Spokespersons In addition to the policies that apply to all employees, City spokespersons must also abide by the following standards: 1. Privacy Expectations and Records Management. In accordance with Arizona's Public Records Law, the public may request information made or received by City employees in the performance of their jobs. Therefore, employees must consider all information, including social media postings, open to public view. Additionally, employees must comply with all records retention policies when posting to social networking forums and sites. 2. Social Media Account Management. Employees authorized to speak on the City's behalf must follow City standards when creating and managing City and department social media accounts. 3. Preserving the Public Trust. Posts made on social networking sites on the City's behalf directly reflect the City. Employees authorized to speak on the City's behalf must: a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. not use their official roles to disparage the City organization, City elected officials, or fellow employees; not endorse or disparage any commercial products, services, entities or political candidates; · promptly correct and acknowledge errors made in any posts; not delete any posts unless they clearly violate the City's Social Media Terms of Use; document unique, non-duplicative posts per the City's Records Management Program overseen by the City Clerk Department. Posting information on social media that is already part of another public record does not require documentation. However, any substantive response to any posting should be documented; ensure information is approved by the appropriate supervisor or manager prior to posting; use appropriate grammar and style when posting; not conduct personal business on City and/or department social media sites or through City and/or department social media accounts; and only post on electronic media that reflects the City's high standard of ethical behavior. 4. Respecting Intellectual Property. Employees authorized to speak on the City's behalf must comply with all laws and City policies related to intellectual property. This includes all copyright and trademark laws regarding use of the City bird logo, for posting electronic media to City social media sites, and for providing attributions for third party content. 5. Guarding Against Privacy and Security Breaches. Employees authorized to speak on the City's behalf should exercise caution when downloading or using apps on City social media sites. These apps may contain malicious software, collect excessive information about employees, or ask for more permissions than are needed to run. Be wary, regularly Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 68 of 80 A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 7 of 8 check app permissions, only download apps from legitimate app sources, and only use apps that benefit the City. 6. Learning and Following Terms of Use. Employees authorized to speak on the City's behalf are responsible for learning and following corporate policies, such as "terms of use," on social media platforms to ensure an official City account is set up properly within the platform's environment. 7. Using City Social Media Only During Working Hours. Hourly employees authorized to use social media on behalf of the City must do so during normal working hours unless otherwise authorized by their supervisor. Overtime is not approved for social media usage outside of normal working hours unless prior approval has been granted by the supervisor. VII. PUBLIC RECORDS REQUESTS AND RECORDS RETENTION City departments and functions are responsible for handling public records requests for the comments posted on their social media sites. Additionally, departments and functions are responsible for working with their Law, Human Resources, City Clerk, and Public Information Office representatives, as needed, before making the records available to the public. If a new public record is created, its content must be maintained per its specific retention schedule. Input received on a policy or service must be saved and kept per its retention schedule. Refer to the City's Records Retention Schedule for detailed information regarding records maintenance and handling. VIII. COMPLIANCE Violation of this A.R. may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. IX. RELATED POLICIES, STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. i. j. k. I. A.R. 1.60- Public Records Request Processing A.R. 1.61 -Records Management Program A.R. 1.63 - Electronic Communications and Internet Acceptable Use A.R. 1.87- Use of the City of Phoenix Corporate Symbol A.R. 1.90- Information Privacy and Protection A.R. 1.92- City Presence on the Internet A.R. 1.95- Privacy Program A.R. 2.16- Political Activity- Time Off to Vote A.R. 2.35(a)- Sexual Harassment A.R. 2.35(b)- Protected Category Harassment Citywide IT Standard - s1.1 0 Collaborative Technologies Citywide IT Standard Operating Procedure - s1.2.1 Access to Blocked Sites Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 69 of 80 A.R. 2.38 NEW Human Resources and Payroll Page 8 of 8 m. Employee Manual n. Ethics Handbook o. Department Social Media Policies X. QUESTIONS Questions regarding this Administrative Regulation (A.R.) and appropriate employee behavior on social media may be directed to the Human Resources Department at 602262-6608. Questions regarding City social media sites and how social media is used to represent the City may be directed to the Public Information Office at 602-262-7177 or socialmedia.pio@phoenix.gov. By: ED ZUERCHER, City Manager Case Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 70 of 80 Exhibit 20 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 71 of 80 To: Jeri L. Williams Police Chief Date: From: Shane A. Disotell, Commander Professional Standards Bureau Subject: INTERNAL INVESTIGATION – PSB19-0070 October 9, 2019 Internal Investigators: Lieutenant Eric Pagone (Investigative Review) Sergeant Jason Robidoux (Primary Investigator) Sergeant Todd Murphy (Secondary Investigator) Allegation #1: It is alleged, between September 30, 2013, and January 9, 2014, Sergeant Juan Hernandez violated Social Media Use policy when he posted inappropriate content on his personal Facebook account. Findings: Sustained Employee/s Involved: Sergeant Juan Hernandez #4551 South Mountain Precinct Complainant: Department Initiated (Plain View Project) Attachments: See Attachments Section SUMMARY OF INVESTIGATION: Between September 30, 2013, and January 9, 2014, Sergeant Juan Hernandez violated the Department’s Social Media Use policy when he posted inappropriate content on his personal Facebook account. The Facebook posts contained religiously insensitive innuendos related to Muslims and the Islamic religion. The posts were discovered by the Plain View Project (PVP) and released to the public and various media outlets on June 1, 2019. Sergeant Hernandez’ Facebook posts caused major reputation damage to the Phoenix Police Department, exposed himself and the Phoenix Police Department to public mistrust, and violated basic Department values. Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 72 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 2 of 10 FINAL DETAILS OF INVESTIGATION: On June 1, 2019, the PVP released a collection of Facebook posts to the public and various media outlets. These Facebook posts were compiled from, what was believed to be, verified Facebook profiles of Phoenix Police Officers as well as officers from seven additional jurisdictions. According to the PVP website, the posts were comprised of excerpts from officers’ public Facebook activity. All posts collected by the PVP were considered to possibly undermine public trust and confidence in police. The PVP website states, “The posts and comments are open to various interpretations. We do not know what a poster meant when he or she typed them; we only know that when we saw them, they concerned us.”1 On June 1, 2019, the PVP published information on their searchable website which resulted in a wide array of negative local and national media coverage involving the Phoenix Police Department. The exposure from the officers’ Facebook posts by the PVP were subsequently used by the media in local headlines that damaged the reputation of the Phoenix Police Department (see Attachments Section).2 Some of the headlines read as follows: • June 3, 2019, “Phoenix officers exposed for racist, violent Facebook posts,” https:/www.abc15.com3 • June 3, 2019, “Phoenix Cops Bash Muslims, Immigrants, and Black People Online…,” Https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com4 • June 4, 2019, “Phoenix Police investigating ‘embarrassing and disturbing’ posts…,” https://www.12news.com5 • June 5, 2019, “Plain View Project brings police under fire for ‘shameful’ web posts,” https://www.azcentral.com6 On June 3, 2019, the Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) initiated an internal investigation concerning the Phoenix Police Officers listed on the PVP website. PSB investigators reviewed the PVP database via www.plainviewproject.org. During the review it was discovered Facebook posts by user “Juan Johnny Hernandez” were recorded on the website.7 The Plain View Project listed Sergeant Juan Hernandez as the author of the posts that were considered a matter of public concern. Sergeant Hernandez’ name along with eleven (11) of his personal Facebook posts were recorded on the website.8 All of Sergeant Hernandez’ posts were reviewed, and he was questioned on four (4) of them.9 It was determined these posts which contained religiously insensitive innuendos referencing Muslims and Islam were potentially inappropriate and/or unprofessional. Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 73 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 3 of 10 FINAL PSB Interview with Sergeant Juan Hernandez #4551: Sergeant Hernandez was interviewed by PSB investigators on June 20, 2019. Sergeant Hernandez told investigators he did have a Facebook account with the user name “Juan Johnny Hernandez” when he made the posts between the dates of September 30, 2013, and January 9, 2014. Sergeant Hernandez said when he made the posts his Facebook account was not set to private. Sergeant Hernandez said he set his account to private approximately two weeks prior to the PSB interview. Sergeant Hernandez also said he posted pictures of himself in uniform with various characters like the Baxter mascot and Star Wars storm troopers. Sergeant Hernandez said the pictures were taken over the years when he worked in the community as a School Resource Sergeant. He said he posted the pictures as he thought they were positive for the department. Sergeant Hernandez was asked about the Facebook post, identified as Facebook post #1. Sergeant Hernandez said his post was to get public discussion going. He said, during that time, ISIS was big and there were refugees coming into the European Union. Sergeant Hernandez referenced “no go” zones and crime waves due to terrorists being among the refugees. Sergeant Hernandez said his point was to encourage discussion about assimilation. PSB investigators asked Sergeant Hernandez what religion the post referred to. Sergeant Hernandez said it was Muslim. Sergeant Hernandez was asked if the post hindered or helped with relationships in the Islamic community. Sergeant Hernandez stated, “Again, it drives discussion. I don’t know that it hurts…it goes either way, and that’s my only point or thought, was to drive discussion. I don’t comment, I let people form their own opinions.”10 Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 74 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 4 of 10 FINAL Sergeant Hernandez was asked about the Facebook post, identified as Facebook post #2. Sergeant Hernandez said the post was about assimilation. Sergeant Hernandez said he was the grandson of migrants and that his family also assimilated. Sergeant Hernandez said the post referenced Muslims. He said he thought the post could help with building relationships within the Islamic community if it drove discussion. Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 75 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 5 of 10 FINAL Sergeant Hernandez was asked about the Facebook post, identified as Facebook post #3. Sergeant Hernandez said he could not remember why he made the post because he posted it six years prior. Sergeant Hernandez stated, “Articles I read I repost just to generate public discussion. I never offer an opinion. I’ve never commented on any of my posts. It’s just trying to drive the discussion about assimilation into other countries. I know that around this time there was a lot of ISIS activity in the Middle East and I know a lot of refugees were coming to Europe especially, but I know the United States was taking a lot of them. It was just to drive discussion about assimilation.”11 Sergeant Hernandez said he was concerned Islamic refugees weren’t assimilating into society. Sergeant Hernandez spoke of his grandparents who were Mexican immigrants and how they assimilated to American culture. Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 76 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 6 of 10 FINAL Sergeant Hernandez was asked about the Facebook post, identified as Facebook post #4. Sergeant Hernandez said the post was to drive the discussion about the military’s involvement in the Middle East. Sergeant Hernandez said he respected the military and cutting their pensions was a slap to them. Sergeant Hernandez was asked if the post hurt or hindered relationships within the Islamic community. Sergeant Hernandez stated, “Looking back, that’s probably the one I would consider not posting…We just need to treat everyone fairly, looking back.” 12 Sergeant Hernandez stated military veterans deserve more support than they get. Sergeant Hernandez described his posts as articles. Sergeant Hernandez said he never commented and did not intend for the posts to be public. Sergeant Hernandez was asked if his posts supported the Phoenix Police Department’s Purpose Statement and Guiding Values. Sergeant Hernandez stated, “I think the Pride Statement guides how we work. I support the pride statement 100% in my job. When I’m at work I treat everybody the same; equally. I have never had complaints about how I treat people. I respect everybody as a person, their religion, their preferences. That’s how I view the pride statement and, yeah, I support it 100%. Do these articles support that? Again, that’s a matter of someone’s opinion. I just put that stuff out there for discussion.”13 The job description for the classification of Police Sergeant (job code 62220)14 has numerous distinguishing features of the class, essential functions, and required knowledge. The “fundamental” reason the classification exists is to supervise and participate in the activities of sworn and civilian personnel without rank. Performance is evaluated by, “results obtained,” as well as observation and oral and written reports. Essential functions include, but are not limited to, serving as a witness in court, investigating alleged misconduct, participate in community Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 77 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 7 of 10 FINAL activities and make verbal presentations to groups and demonstrate “superior” integrity. Sergeants are expected to have knowledge of, “General social problems and cultural diversity of citizenry,” in addition to modern police methods, practices and procedures. Two of the primary abilities listed in the classification of Police Sergeant are to, “Maintain moral integrity,” and, “Work cooperatively, courteously, but firmly with all segments of the public.” At the time of this Facebook post, Sergeant Hernandez was assigned to a specialty position in the Community Resources Bureau as a School Resource Sergeant; who is responsible for supervising several School Resource Officers in various schools in their assigned work areas. Sergeants in these positions are required to maintain close working relationships with not only the officers under their direct supervision, but also to develop and maintain internal and external partnerships with the various educational institutions, as well as members of the community, to include students, parents, and caregivers. These goals and expectations were outlined in the Performance Management Guide (PMG) for Sergeant Hernandez as a School Resource Sergeant (SRS). This same PMG also requires Sergeant Hernandez to “lead by example, holding yourself” accountable while demonstrating forward focus. CONCLUSION: In August 2013, the Phoenix Police Department’s Social Media Use policy became effective. As described in Operations Order 3.27.9.A.(1)(2), “When using social media, Department personnel should be mindful their speech becomes part of the worldwide electronic domain. Therefore, adherence to City and Department policies is required in the personal use of social media. Employees are prohibited from using social media in a manner that would cause embarrassment to or discredit the Department in any way. Employees are responsible for their social media postings if they are found to be in violation of any City or Department policy.” Between September 30, 2013, and January 9, 2014, Sergeant Juan Hernandez shared four (4) posts on his personal Facebook account which contained negative racial and religious context directed at the Islamic religion and Muslims, which are inconsistent with the Department’s Purpose Statement and Guiding Value to respect and honor the inherent dignity of all people. In the days following the release of the PVP on June 1, 2019, and the subsequent New Times article a short time later, media outlets and members of the community interpreted the officers’ posts as “racist, violent, embarrassing, disturbing and/or shameful.”15 The stories pertaining to Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 78 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 8 of 10 FINAL the Facebook posts by members of the Phoenix Police Department were widely circulated within Phoenix, as well as throughout the country. This overwhelming media coverage resulted in major reputation damage to the Phoenix Police Department.16 Sergeant Hernandez’ Facebook posts contained insensitive language and could potentially spread fear and hatred towards people of Middle Eastern descent, as well as those practicing the Muslim faith. In addition, Sergeant Hernandez’ Facebook posts potentially reduced or contributed to the erosion of public trust, were inflammatory to certain groups, and/or created dissention in the community by promoting hate, violence, racism, bias, or beliefs inconsistent with the Phoenix Police Department’s Purpose Statement and Guiding Values. Sergeant Hernandez’ Facebook posts are not compatible with the expectations of the City of Phoenix and the requirements set forth within the description for the job classification of Police Sergeant. Police Sergeants are expected to maintain superior integrity, participate in community activities, have knowledge of general social problems and cultural diversity of our citizenry. In addition, Police Sergeants are expected to work cooperatively and courteously with all segments of the public. Additionally, Police Sergeants are required to present legal testimony, a task that is complicated if a sergeant is found to have engaged in behavior that demonstrates bias. The Facebook postings made by Sergeant Hernandez, now public, do not meet the expectations of the community or the City, and do not align with the distinguishing features, essential functions and required knowledge as outlined in the City of Phoenix classification for a Police Sergeant. Therefore, the allegation that Sergeant Hernandez violated the Department’s Social Media Use policy when he posted inappropriate content on his personal Facebook account is sustained. This investigation has concluded that Sergeant Hernandez’ actions are in violation of the following policies: • Operations Order 3.27.9.B.(6), (New 08/13), which states, “Department personnel are free to express themselves as private citizens on social media sites to the degree that their speech does not impair working relationships of this Department, are detrimental to the mission and functions of the Department, that undermine respect or public confidence in the Department, cause embarrassment to the Department or City, discredit the Department or City, or undermine the goals and mission of the Department or City.” Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 79 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 9 of 10 • FINAL Operations Order 1.1.2.B.(3), which states, “Responsibility and Respect: We respect and honor the inherent dignity of all people, including ourselves, and pledge fair and equal treatment for all.” Accordingly, the applicable discipline for the most significant policy violation outlined above is designated in Operations Order 3.18, Addendum A, 3.D.(1)(p), “As defined in the Classification Guidance Criteria, section 4, of this addendum,” and further defined in Operations Order 3.18, Addendum A, subsection 4.C.(4), where, “The employee’s actions violated the oath of office or basic Department values.” This is a Class III violation, which requires referral to the DRB for a possible demotion and/or 40, 80, or 240 hours suspension, or termination or referral to the Police Chief (or designee) for a Loudermill Hearing. CLOSING: This Professional Standards Bureau investigation is complete. The investigation was reviewed by the involved employee. This investigation will be retained in the Professional Standards Bureau in accordance with retention policies/law. Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-2 Filed 10/10/19 Page 80 of 80 Police Chief Jeri L. Williams INTERNAL INVESTIGATION REPORT PSB19-0070 Page 10 of 10 FINAL Endnotes: 1 Not attached; reference www.plainviewproject.org “PVP Phoenix news,” Google search 3 Attachment; “plain view project phoenix news,” Google search 4 Attachment; “plain view project phoenix news,” Google search 5 Attachment; “plain view project phoenix news,” Google search 6 Attachment; “plain view project phoenix news,” Google search 7 Not attached; reference www.plainviewproject.org 8 Attachment; Sergeant Hernandez (7) FB posts – Did not violate OPS 3.27 9 Attachment; Sergeant Hernandez (4) FB posts – Interviewed for violation of OPS 3.27 10 PSB Interview with Sergeant Hernandez, Begin: 9:33 11 PSB Interview with Sergeant Hernandez, Begin: 4:28 12 PSB Interview with Sergeant Hernandez, Begin: 12:31 13 PSB Interview with Sergeant Hernandez, Begin: 20:19 14 City of Phoenix Job Description for Police Sergeant – see attachment 15 Attachment; “plain view project phoenix news,” Google search (07/09/2019) 16 Attached; ENS (06/03/2019) – Message from the Chief – Employee Social Media Use 2 Rev. 1/2019 Case 2:19-cv-05365-MTL Document 1-3 Filed 10/10/19 Page 1 of 1 1 2 3 4 5 6 Steven J. Serbalik, Bar #028191 STEVEN J. SERBALIK, P.L.C. 4925 E. Desert Cove Ave #116 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Telephone: (480) 269-1529 steveserbalik@gmail.com Attorney for Plaintiffs Juan Hernandez and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs, Inc. 7 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT DISTRICT OF ARIZONA 8 9 10 11 12 Juan Hernandez, et. al, NO. Plaintiffs, v. The City of Phoenix, et. al, Defendants. 13 14 CERTIFICATION OF COUNSEL RELATED TO PLAINTIFFS MOTION FOR A TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER, PRELIMINARY INJUNCTION, AND PERMANENT INJUNCTION 15 Pursuant to F.R.C.P. 65(b)(1)(B), Steven J Serbalik, movants’ attorney, certifies 16 that the Complaint, Exhibits, and Motion for a Temporary Restraining Order, Preliminary 17 Injunction, and Permanent Injunction will be immediately emailed to the official City of 18 Phoenix email addresses of Defendant Jeri Williams, Defendant Shane Disotell, and the 19 City Attorney of Defendant City of Phoenix. Upon information and belief, Defendants and 20 their representatives regularly check their email addresses, and will have immediate, 21 actual notice of the Complaint and Motion. 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED this 10th day of October, 2019. STEVEN J SERBALIK, P.L.C. By: /s/Steven J. Serbalik Steven J. Serbalik 4925 E. Desert Cove Ave #116 Scottsdale, Arizona 85254 Attorney for Plaintiffs Juan Hernandez and the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs, Inc.