Mesa Rangers in 'Goon Squad' raked in top 10 overtime pay in 2024 in metro Phoenix

Mesa park rangers involved in the "Goon Squad" investigation received excessive overtime pay, with Lead Ranger Joshua Amado earning $10,648 in 2024, nearly 19 times the median of $567 for similar positions across seven Valley cities. Three of the rangers disciplined for misconduct ranked among the top 10 highest overtime earners in the region. Following allegations of misconduct, including targeting homeless individuals and using racial slurs, seven rangers were placed on leave. Amado was arrested for possession of a stolen firearm just days before his resignation. The investigation was prompted by a rookie ranger reporting the firearm, leading to both police and internal inquiries.

The city confirmed that the rangers formed a group known as the "Goon Squad," which engaged in violent behavior against marginalized groups. Mesa’s overtime pay system requires supervisor approval, but the city faced challenges accessing records due to the unit supervisor's leave. Overtime hours declined sharply following the investigation, indicating a potential impact on department operations.