Outrage at pay hike for Phoenix police under investigation over use of force

Community advocates say money should be spend tackling city's extreme heat, homelessness and mental health crises

A bumper pay hike for Phoenix police has been condemned by community advocates who argue the money should be spent tackling the city's extreme heat, homelessness and mental health crises.

At a heated city council meeting on Wednesday, several public speakers questioned the $19.8m salary windfall given the continuing Department of Justice investigation into the city police department over allegations of excessive use of force, retaliation against Black Lives Matter protesters, discriminatory policing and inappropriate treatment of homeless and disabled people.