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Fallen in the Line of Duty - Officer David Lee “Star” Johnsonhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/police/3051Police3/21/2024 3:40:00 PMhttps://youtu.be/-3DKZbA0TbYFallen in the Line of Duty - Officer David Lee “Star” Johnson<div class="ExternalClass5827CF38DCCB4046B6E35366734D8CFD"><html> <p>On May 2, 1944, Phoenix Police Officer David Lee “Star" Johnson was shot and killed, making him the second Phoenix police officer to die in the line of duty. His sacrifice has never been recognized by the City as a fallen officer. As we near the 80<sup>th</sup> anniversary of his death, the City of Phoenix is now honoring Johnson for paying the ultimate price.</p><p>Johnson's story has never been widely shared by the department. Many officers have not heard of the 36-year-old from Texas and the events surrounding his death. As a result of the persistence and dedication of a few people inside the Phoenix Police Department, his story is now being shared and honor given.</p><p>Phoenix in the 1940s was a very different place than it is today, and so was the nation. The United States had just come out of the Great Depression, World War II was in full swing, and segregation was still prevalent in the country.</p><p>Johnson was an Army veteran and was one of the few African American police officers in Phoenix at the time. He had been an officer for two and a half years when he was killed and was assigned to the walking beat in Downtown Phoenix.</p><p>At that time, African American officers were restricted to working a specific area of the city. Their beat was in the area between First Street and 16<sup>th</sup> Street, Van Buren Street and Jackson Street.</p><p>The story of what happened to Johnson on the day of his death has been pieced together from various police records, court records and newspaper articles by the Phoenix Police Department Historian Sergeant Vincent Cole, and retired Phoenix Police Lieutenant Rob Settembre.</p><p>“This is a very, very complex chain of events that occurred prior to the death, during the death and even after," Cole said.</p><p>On May 2, 1944, Johnson was working with his partner, Officer Joe Davis, when they witnessed a traffic violation and stopped the vehicle near 2<sup>nd</sup> Street and Jefferson Street.</p><p>It is unknown exactly who was in the vehicle at the time of the traffic violation, but Detective Leonce “Frenchy" Navarre is known to have been on the scene and off-duty at the time of the incident. It is also documented that Davis left his partner to go into a business nearby while Johnson was working the traffic stop.</p><p>The records indicate that an argument occurred between Johnson and Navarre over the traffic stop and a ticket that Johnson was going to write for running a stop sign.</p><p>“That resulted in Navarre opening fire on Star. Star fled the area after being shot and collapsed into a nearby business. He was transported to a local hospital where he later died," shared Cole.</p><p>In the following days, Navarre was arrested and charged for the murder of Johnson.</p><p>During the trial, several witnesses were interviewed, and Navarre was quoted saying his justification for the shooting was that Johnson called him a “son of a bitch" and that he would not be treated like that from anyone. Navarre also used a derogatory term referring to Johnson's race during his testimony. The trail resulted in a hung jury. He was retried and the second trial ended with Navarre being acquitted.</p><p>After his acquittal, Navarre was allowed to return to work as a detective and was assigned to Police Headquarters, which back then was at 17 S. 2<sup>nd</sup> Street.</p><p>Davis, upset about the death of his partner and the acquittal of Navarre, confronted Navarre at Headquarters. Davis shot and killed Navarre.</p><p>Like Navarre, there is a hung jury for Davis' first trial. At the second trial, Davis was found guilty of manslaughter. He served a few years in prison and was released on parole.</p><p>“This happened 80 years ago, and it took a lot of digging to put the pieces of the puzzle together, but once we were able to successfully do that, this is the right thing for us to do," said Cole.</p><p>This spring, Johnson will finally be recognized on both a local and national level.</p><p>Settembre and Cole devoted many hours over the years researching and putting the pieces of the puzzle together. They attempted a number of times to get him recognized as a fallen officer, with no luck, until now. The pair was able to get Johnson recognized as a fallen officer by both the City of Phoenix and the <a target="_blank" href="https://nleomf.org/memorial/">National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial</a>.</p><p>Cole shared that it would not have been possible without the help of Executive Assistant Chief Sean Connolly, Executive Assistant Chief Derek Elmore, Commander Shane Disotell and Commander Gabe Lopez for their assistance in research and their support of getting Cole the opportunity to present Johnson's story to Interim Police Chief Michael Sullivan.  </p><p>“When I heard the story and got a full brief, I knew that we had to do the right thing because there is never a wrong time to do the right thing," said Sullivan.</p><p>Settembre had previously gotten Johnson recognized at the state level and his name added to the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.azag.gov/criminal/law-enforcement/pomb/list">Peace Officer Memorial</a> outside of the State Capitol in Wesley Bolin Plaza.</p><p>“Officer Johnson has been recognized for a number of years at the state level, but I think it is very important that we enshrine his name in Washington D.C. so that the rest of the nation knows about this story," Sullivan said.</p><p>On March 21, 2024, the City of Phoenix added Johnson's name on the Employee Memorial Wall located outside of City Hall, 200 W. Washington Street.</p><p>The Phoenix Police Department will honor him on April 30, 2024, for the first time during the 11<sup>th</sup> Annual Phoenix Police Officer Memorial. And on May 2, 2024, the 80<sup>th</sup> anniversary of this death, the police department will unveil a historical marker near the location the shooting, 219 E. Jefferson Street. </p><p>In May, Johnson's name is being added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial wall in Washington D.C. during National Police Week. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.policeweek.org/">Police Week</a> is the week that May 15, Peace Officers Memorial Day, falls in and is a week of events that honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice.</p><p>The <a target="_blank" href="https://phoenixpolicemuseum.org/">Phoenix Police Museum</a> will also be adding Johnson to their memorial wall, an event is still being planned for the unveiling.</p><p>Johnson was single at the time of his death and unfortunately, no familial connection has been found to represent him during these events. At the time of his death, he was survived by an aunt and uncle.</p><p>Please follow along on the Phoenix Police Department's social media channels, @phoenixpolice, as Johnson is being honored during the various events this spring.​<br></p> </html></div>https://phoenix.gov/policeVideopolicePolice@phoenixpolice #fallenofficerPolice Main PIOphoenixpd.pio@phoenix.govhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/MediaContact/Attachments/36/Police2.pngPhoenixPolice

 

 

Give Your Input 2025-2029 Grant Planning Processhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/neighborhood-services/3347Neighborhood Services2/10/2025 10:00:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3347/City of Phoenix Skyline.pngGive Your Input 2025-2029 Grant Planning Process<div class="ExternalClass9EF94216431645ACA2E3AAB5AE174A20"><html> <p>​​Every five years, the city of Phoenix develops a Consolidated Plan to submit to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).<br></p> <p>The Consolidated Plan is a comprehensive plan for affordable housing and community development created from an assessment of the community needs and market conditions. The consolidated planning process serves as the framework for a community-wide dialogue to identify housing and community development priorities that align and focus funding from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investme​​nt Partnership, Housing Opportunities for Persons with HIV/AIDS (HOPWA), and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) programs.</p> <p>"We are asking the community to participate in the planning process by attending community meetings and providing feedback on proposed goals. Don't miss this opportunity to be involved in the City's 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan process," Neighborhood Services Department Director Spencer Self said. <br></p> <p>The Your City, Your Voice: Improving Your Community Over the Next 5 Years series of community meetings will be held across Phoenix to explain the grant funding sources and to give residents content to help voice their goals through a public survey. To learn more, visit <a target="_blank" href="/nsd/yourvoice"><strong>phoenix.gov/YourVoice</strong> </a>for future updates.<br></p> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/nsdNews
City of Phoenix Appoints New Chief Information Security Officer https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/information-technology-services/3346Information Technology Services2/7/2025 3:00:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3346/phoenix ciso mitch kohlbecker.pngCity of Phoenix Appoints New Chief Information Security Officer <div class="ExternalClassF20B958434264427AB625C9597771947"><html> The City of Phoenix and Information Technology Services Department are pleased to announce the appointment of Mitch Kohlbecker as the City’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).   <br><br> <div></div> <div>For nearly five years, Kohlbecker has dedicated his time to serving the City of Phoenix as the deputy chief information security officer, and his efforts significantly strengthened the city’s security office. He drove critical advancements in Architecture, Engineering, Risk Management and Compliance, greatly improving the organization's security posture. </div> <div> <br> </div> <div>Prior to joining the City, Kohlbecker served over two decades in leadership as a Chief Information Security Officer and Senior Director in various organizations across a range of industries, including education, government, non-profit, and Fortune-listed companies. </div> <div> <br> </div> <div>“I look forward to my continued work in securing the City and its assets and data on behalf of our constituents,” said Kohlbecker. “Cybersecurity is a critical component of the overall health of City operations, and I'm eager to work with my colleagues to help foster a culture of business innovation and enhancement, done securely.“ </div><div><br></div><div>As CISO, Kohlbecker’s goal will be to balance the City’s business needs with the essential task of safeguarding the City's assets and resident information. His view is that effective security and business alignment are not mutually exclusive but complementary pursuits that drive overall organizational success.<br></div><div></div> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/itsNews
City of Phoenix Appoints Maxwell Wilson as Water Resources Management Advisorhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/city-manager/3344City Manager2/6/2025 9:52:00 PMhttps://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/3344/Newsroom_MaxwellWilson_no_text.pngCity of Phoenix Appoints Maxwell Wilson as Water Resources Management Advisor<div class="ExternalClass4588D46998364DD4B6320C61C23EB245"><html> <p>​The City of Phoenix has named Dr. Maxwell Wilson as its new Water Resources Management Advisor, effective February 3, 2025. Wilson, who has served as Deputy Water Services Director for the Water Planning Division, steps into the role following the retirement of Cynthia Campbell, a highly regarded expert in Arizona water policy.<br></p> <p>With more than a decade of experience in water resource management, conservation, and policy development, Wilson has been a driving force behind Phoenix’s efforts to ensure a sustainable water future. Since joining the Phoenix Water Services Department in 2021, he has played a pivotal role in expanding conservation initiatives, implementing innovative water efficiency programs, and strengthening partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies.<br></p> <p>"Phoenix has a strong history of responsible water use. Our growing, thriving City needs someone with the experience and talent Max brings to the role. It is crucial to meeting the needs of our residents, businesses, and future generations," said City Manager Jeff Barton. "I am confident he will be a strong leader as we navigate the complexities of water management and continue providing safe, reliable water to our community."<br></p> <p>As Deputy Water Services Director, Wilson oversaw water resource planning, infrastructure records services, and conservation programs. Under his leadership, Phoenix advanced initiatives such as Advanced Water Purification, financial incentive programs for homeowners, and new conservation strategies aimed at mitigating the impacts of ongoing drought conditions. His expertise in long-term water planning has helped position Phoenix as a national leader in sustainable water management.<br></p> <p>In his new role, Wilson will advise the City Manager, Mayor, and City Council on critical water policy matters, represent Phoenix in high-level discussions with state and federal agencies, and continue to drive policies that ensure the city’s water security amid ongoing climate challenges.<br></p> <p>"Phoenix’s commitment to water sustainability has been built on a legacy of forward-thinking policies and strategic planning," said Wilson. "I’m honored to step into this role and continue working with our community, policymakers, and industry leaders to secure a resilient water future for Phoenix."<br></p> <p>Wilson holds a Ph.D. in Biology and has dedicated his career to addressing the water challenges in the Southwest and around the world. His appointment underscores the City of Phoenix’s ongoing commitment to proactive water management, innovation, and long-term sustainability.<br></p> <p>He succeeds Cynthia Campbell, who served as Water Resources Management Advisor since 2011. During her tenure, Campbell played a key role in securing Phoenix’s long-term water supplies, developing drought management strategies, and leading the city's participation in major conservation agreements.<br></p> <p><b>About City of Phoenix Water Services Department</b><br></p> <p>The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit <a href="/waterservices" target="_blank"><strong>phoenix.gov/water.</strong></a><br></p> <p>Media Contacts:<br></p> <p>Michael Gertzman<br><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">Sr. Public Information Officer<br></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">Water Services<br></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">602-534-1209 <br></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"><a href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"><strong>michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</strong></a></span></p> <p></p> <p>Jimena Garrison<br><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">Public Information Officer<br></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">Water Services<br></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;">480-390-1933<br></span><span style="background-color:window;color:windowtext;font-size:10pt;"><a href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank"><strong>jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</strong></a></span></p> <p>​</p> </html></div>https://www.phoenix.gov/citymanagerNews

 

 

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