Retirement and Controversy: A Look at Tempe Police Department’s Recent Challenges and Future Goals

Wil Price, the manager of the Police Analytics Bureau within the Tempe Police Department, has announced his retirement after two years on the job. Prior to his current role, Price served as a sworn officer with the Tempe Police Department from 1982 to 2003, retiring as a sergeant. He then returned as a professional staff member in 2022, where he has been managing the Police Analytics Bureau.

Despite his long history with the department, recent issues within certain units of the bureau have come to light. Former police officer Anthony Chiaro filed a Notice of Claim alleging retaliation for whistleblowing on problems within the Technical Services Unit. Chiaro worked in this unit for nearly a decade and raised concerns about new equipment sitting unused for years and misuse of public funds and equipment.

The Forensic Services Unit has also faced challenges, with crime scene technicians lacking proper equipment and standards. Despite these issues, Chief Kenneth McCoy is focused on transforming the Tempe Police Department into a top-tier agency by combating street racing, reducing serious injury collisions and opening a Real-Time Operations Center in the near future. Interviews on these topics may be scheduled for a future date.