One Mesa Park Ranger has resigned and several others were placed on administrative leave after numerous allegations of misconduct by the unit prompted a criminal investigation from the city.
It also has led to the Mesa Police Department taking on oversight of the Park Rangers Unit.
“The current Park Rangers will undergo the same rigorous background investigation required of all new Mesa PD personnel,” the department said in a statement. “This process is not only thorough but also vital in maintaining the highest standards of trust and integrity. Furthermore, a comprehensive, tailored training program is being developed to equip our Park Rangers with a deep understanding of Mesa PD policies, procedures, and expectations.”