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Phoenix police officer arrested by FBI for 'serious criminal acts'

The Phoenix Police Department was notified by the FBI of an "ongoing investigation" involving an officer concerning "serious criminal acts."

PHOENIX — A Phoenix police officer is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation concerning "serious criminal acts," according to the Phoenix Police Department and the FBI. But what those criminal acts are remains unclear. 

Neighbors of the officer told 12News that federal agents raided the officer's home on Thursday. 

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12News has learned that the FBI was raiding the home of Officer Alaa Bartley, who has been with the department for about 15 years.  

The Phoenix Police Department confirmed that an officer was arrested on Friday night in connection with an FBI investigation, but did not confirm that it was Bartley. 

The FBI confirmed to 12News that it was conducting "court-authorized law enforcement activity" at the home and they searched a substation or precinct, as well.

The Phoenix Police Department said it has "initiated the disciplinary process, up to and including termination of the officer in question," but has not said what Bartley is being accused of. 

12News has sent a list of questions to the Phoenix Police Department to gather more information, including the following questions that remain unanswered: 

  • What is the nature of the allegations?
  • What date was the Phoenix Police Department made aware of the investigation into the officer?
  • What date did the disciplinary process with Phoenix police begin?
  • Is the officer on leave right now? Does he have his gun and badge? Is the officer being paid by Phoenix police right now?
  • Did any of the alleged offenses occur while on duty?
  • Was any Phoenix police precinct, substation, or vehicle also searched related to this officer and investigation?

"We are committed to upholding transparency throughout this process, and we will provide further information as it becomes available," Phoenix PD said in a statement to 12News. "We understand the importance of maintaining public trust, and we assure the community that we take these matters seriously and will handle them with the utmost diligence and integrity."

<< This story will be updated as additional information becomes available. Stay with 12News for the latest.

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