Friday, December 18, 2009

Benefit Concert to be held for DPS Officer Ken Henscheid

Off. Henscheid was critically injured after being struck by a semi-truck on Thanksgiving weekend

Thursday, December 17, 2009 -

The band, “Another Shot” featuring special guest drummer-Ross Read, will be playing at the Roadrunner Restaurant and Saloon located at 47801 North Black Canyon Highway, New River Ariz. The event kicks off at 7:00 p.m. and runs until after mid-night. Two of the band members are also DPS Officers. Officer Henscheid is still being treated at the Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC) for the very serious injuries he sustained as a result of the incident.

WHO: The band, Another Shot

WHAT: Benefit Concert for DPS Officer Ken Henscheid, who was critically injured in the line of duty on Nov. 29, 2009, after he was hit by an out of control semi-tractor trailer traveling north on I-17 near Munds Park south of Flagstaff.

WHERE: Roadrunner Restaurant and Saloon

47801 No. Black Canyon Hwy.

New River, Arizona

WHEN: Friday, December 18, 2009

7:00 p.m.

The original information regarding this incident is available at: http://www.azdps.gov/Media/News/View/?p=140

Officer dies while trying to stop fleeing suspect

Friday, December 18, 2009 - (DPS)

On December 17, 2009, at approximately 9:29 p.m., an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officer located a vehicle with a stolen license plate traveling westbound on State Route 101 at 64th street. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle at the 56th street exit. At the 7th Street exit on the Loop 101, DPS Officer Chris Marano was out of his vehicle and in the process of deploying stop sticks, which is a tire deflation device, in an effort to disable the fleeing suspect vehicle and end the pursuit.

Officer Marano was standing in the right shoulder of the freeway. The suspect vehicle veered into the right shoulder while the pursuing DPS patrol vehicle remained in the right travel lane striking Officer Marano.

Officer Marano, 28, of Surprise, Ariz., was transported to John C. Lincoln Hospital North Mountain where he was pronounced deceased at 10:09 p.m. He is survived by his wife, Shelly Marano, and four children ages 7, 5, 5, and 4 months. Officer Marano had served with DPS three and one half years.

The suspect vehicle continued and exited the freeway at 7th Avenue. With the assistance of citizens, officers located the abandoned vehicle at 5th Avenue and Tonopah. A perimeter was established with the aid of Phoenix Police and the Mesa Police helicopter. A Phoenix Police Canine unit located the suspect hiding on the balcony of a condominium. The suspect did not respond to officer’s commands and was bitten by a police canine.

The suspect, Georgia Lynn Baker, 43, of Phoenix was transported to a local hospital for treatment of the bite injury. Investigators believe she was impaired by drugs.

Baker remains in the hospital and will undergo minor surgery. We expect her to be booked into the Maricopa County 4th Avenue Jail. DPS will notify media when the suspect is transported which should be sometime today.

Officer Chris Marano was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He graduated from High School in 2000 from Washburn High School in Minnesota before joining the Navy where he was in active service as a military police officer from 2000-2005. Marano was in the Navy reserve from 2005 until 2008. Below is a list of his commendations while in the Navy.

U.S. Navy: 8/13/2000 to 10/13/2005 (required active service)
Served as a Military Police Officer in Naples, Italy and aboard USS Nimitz for a combined 4 years
separated with Honorable discharge.
Awards during active service:
1) 2002 Letter of Commendation for providing protection to a large number of high risk dignitaries in Castel, Volturno, Italy.
2) 2003 Letter of Appreciation for outstanding performance in emergency response of vehicular accident involving a shipmate in Italy
3) 2005 Letter of Commendation Citation for outstanding performance of duty as Watch Commander aboard USS Nimitz.

Please send condolences to: http://www.legacy.com/gb2/default.aspx?personid=137445494

Funeral arrangements as well as the establishment of a benefit account are pending. Please check back for updated information and images of Officer Marano.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

BULLHEAD CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT AND FRONTIER COMMUNICATIONS PRAISE CONTEST WINNER


Grabbing the phone and calling 911 has proven to stop crimes in progress, save people in medical distress, and get the fire department rolling to fires. Recently Frontier Communications and Bullhead Fire Department teamed up to promote a poster contest in the 5th grade rooms of Bullhead City. The contest was not a teacher assignment; therefore, it was up to the student if they wanted to design a poster and submit it. The purpose of the poster was to increase awareness of 911 to the community and to the children. Posters were to demonstrate the meaning of 911, when should 911 be called, and why should 911 be called. The posters were collected and judged. The Judges were Jason Moothart and Melody Dumochel from Frontier Communications along with Kim Miles and Mike Villagran from the Bullhead City Fire Department. The judges looked at about 50 posters before deciding on a winner. Kim Miles, Public Education Specialist with the fire department, worked with the schools and teachers to coordinate the contest. This contest could become an annual event Frontier Communications had the poster enlarged and it is currently on display in their lobby on Hancock Road. The winner was Jennifer Jones from Desert Valley Elementary School. Jennifer is a student in the classroom of Ms. Shannon Dias. Jennifer also will receive “Honorary Fire Chief ForThe Day” and dinner with the shift crew. Battalion Chief Don Evans says “my crew at Station One is excited about Jennifer joining them for dinner. They plan to cook something up special for our big winner.” PHOTO: Poster winner Jennifer Jones displays her enlarged poster with Melody Dumochel (L) along with Mike Villagran and Kim Miles. Photo provided by the Bullhead City Fire Department with permission to publish with the following credit line: “Photo courtesy of the Bullhead City Fire Department.”

REWARD up to $11,000 for information on murder



TYPE OF CRIME: HOMICIDE VICTIM: LYNSEY CHAINHALT 20 YEARS OLD LOCATION: 17800 N. 20th ST ( 20th St and Grovers) DATE/TIME: JUNE 14 , 2003 at 2:08 AM PERSON/S OF INTEREST: VEHICLE: Ricardo Molinares-Sanchez aka “Butcho” 30 years old,6’3, 280 lbs and Fermin Gomez aka “Mini” 28 years old, 5’7, 125 lbs NEWER DARK BLUE TAHOE OR YUKON WITH TINTED WINDOWS On June 14, 2003 at approximately 2:08 am the victim was in a vehicle on the I/17 and Greenway accompanied by 3 of her friends. They were cut off by the driver of the suspect vehicle after a verbal altercation and followed to the area of 20th St and Grovers. The suspects then fired multiple times at the vehicle causing the death of the victim. The 3 suspects then fled in the listed vehicle. Police have listed Ricardo Sanchez-Molinares and Fermin Gomez as person/s of interest. If you have any information reference this case please contact Silent Witness

Fatal Collision - State Route (Loop) 303 at Olive Avenue


DPS is investigating a two-vehicle collision, involving one fatal injury and a commercial vehicle, which occurred around 8:19 AM in the intersection of State Route 303 and Olive Avenue in the Northwest Valley. The collision involves a tractor/trailer unit hauling gravel and a pick-up truck. Preliminary information according to on scene witnesses, indicates the pick-up truck entered into the intersection against the red traffic signal and collided with the gravel truck who entered on the green signal. The specific direction for each vehicle is being verified. One vehicle was southbound on State Route 303 and the other was traveling eastbound on Olive Avenue. Both vehicles overturned after impact with the gravel truck losing its load onto the roadway surface mainly blocking the northbound lanes and partially blocking the southbound lanes. The deceased occupant (declared on scene) was the driver of the pick-up. No further information will be provided until the next of kin notification process has been completed. It is unknown if the gravel truck driver has reported any injury. There were no other occupants for either vehicle.

PHOENIX POLICE & Waste management launch new public safety program


“Waste Watch” Trains Drivers to Aid Police Phoenix – December 16th, 2009 – Phoenix police have a new ally to help protect Valley neighborhoods. Waste Management and the Phoenix Police Department will join forces to launch Waste Watch, a WM community safety program designed to help law enforcement spot suspicious activity. Through this program, Waste Management drivers will act as an extra set of eyes and ears for police, fire department and emergency services, reporting unusual activity that may take place while drivers are on their routes. Dozens of Waste Management drivers will be trained by security professionals and Phoenix Police to show them what to look for while on their routes and how to respond in an emergency situation. “Since Waste Management drivers are familiar with their routes and tend to work at night when crime often occurs, it makes them good candidates for spotting suspicious activity,” said Waste Management Area Vice President Dan Vermeer. “Waste Watch is another way for our employees to help make a positive difference in our community, to help make it a safer place. The media is invited to attend a press conference announcing the program: Location: Waste Management’s Elwood Facility 1580 E. Elwood St. (just south of University) Date: Thursday, December 17th, 2009 Time: 2pm Who: Remarks from Mayor Phil Gordon, Public Safety Manager Jack Harris and Waste Management Area Vice President Dan Vermeer

Man turns himself him for a murder in 1988


On 12/15/09, at about 3:30 p.m., Kenneth Jackson, walked into the Phoenix Police headquarters at 620 W. Washington and asked to speak with a homicide detective. Mr. Jackson was then contacted by a member of the Homicide Unit in the lobby and this is when it was learned that Jackson wanted to turn himself in for a murder which occurred 21 years ago. Mr. Jackson told Phoenix Homicide detectives that in November of 1988 he entered the home of the victim, whom he had known only slightly, with the intent to rob him. Mr. Jackson said he killed the victim, took his wallet and fled the home. Mr. Jackson explained that he had been “strung out” on drugs and he had needed money for his next “fix”. Shortly after the homicide Mr. Jackson fled Arizona to Southern California where he began to change his life. Mr. Jackson cleaned himself of drugs obtained a decent job and bought a home. During this same time period Mr. Jackson’s father was terminally ill and, according to Mr. Jackson, he confessed the crime to his father and his father advised him before he passed away to “get back to the church and fix this”. Mr. Jackson continued his rejuvenated life, but was not happy. After approximately 21 years of living with what he had done, Mr. Jackson chose to return to Phoenix and turn himself in. Mr. Jackson was determined to have specific information about the homicide that only the suspect could know. Kenneth Jackson Jr. was later booked into jail on one count of first degree murder and one count of armed robbery. Attempts to locate the victim’s next of kin are being made to notify them of this arrest.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Air Rescue medics deliver baby on board DPS helicopter


On December 15th, 2009, at about 6:18 a.m., the DPS Air Rescue Helicopter stationed out of Kingman, Ariz., responded to a medical emergency involving a woman in active labor. The patient, a 33 year-old resident of Supai, was being treated at a local clinic in the Supai Village that is located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. The crew, consisting of a DPS Officer-Pilot and two Officer-Paramedics, prepared the patient for flight and began a transport to the Kingman Regional Medical Center (KRMC) about 130 miles away. As the crew was preparing to land, at about 8:25 a.m., the Kingman based crew reacted as the woman’s labor progressed to the point where it became clear that her soon-to-be newborn wanted to make his grand appearance prior to getting to the hospital. Working quickly, the DPS crew delivered the healthy baby boy in the back of the helicopter just as the helicopter was landing. There were no complications. The Air Rescue Helicopter landed safely five minutes later at KRMC. The mother and baby boy are resting comfortably at KRMC. The Medical Doctor stationed at the Supai Village clinic reportedly was unable to find any medical-evacuation helicopter to respond this morning. However, the DPS Kingman-Ranger Air Rescue crew was readily available and up to the task when called upon. “This instance of extraordinary service performed by DPS Air Rescue personnel is just an example of what our aviation unit does on a regular basis statewide in the service of Arizona residents and visitors alike. Whether a medical, search and rescue, or law enforcement mission, the crews at DPS’ four Air Rescue bases stand ready to provide an invaluable resource in treacherous conditions and terrain where many other medical-evacuation helicopters can’t,” said Rich Thacher, DPS Aviation Administrator. Additional information regarding our Air Rescue program can be obtained at the following link: http://www.azdps.gov/About/Organization/Highway_Patrol/Aviation/

Yuma Fire: Candle with Care


Candle With Care:
The holiday season is here and some centerpieces and decorations may include candles. During December there are nearly twice as many candle fires as are average for the other 11 months. Candle fires account for more than 10,000 home fires a year. The top five days of the year for candle fires are Christmas, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and Halloween! So, with 4 of those days coming in just the next few weeks, here are a few suggestions:

-Keep candles away from all holiday decorations.
-Place burning candles where they can’t be bumped or brushed against.
-Arrange table candles safely away from flammable centerpieces and hanging decorations.
-Be sure candles have stable bases and holders.

And NEVER leave a burning candle unattended!!!!!!!!!!
Have a safe and happy holiday season! For more information about fire safety and injury prevention, contact the Yuma Fire Department Public Information Office at 373-4855.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Rangers Respond to Request for Assistance for Grand Canyon Railway


Grand Canyon, Ariz. – At approximately 11:40 a.m. on Monday, December 14, the National Park Service (NPS) responded to a request for assistance from the Grand Canyon Railway (Railway) at the rail junction with Rowe Well Road three miles inside the park boundary. Upon arriving at the scene, ranger’s found the train stopped approximately 70 feet beyond the rail junction with one of the locomotive’s four axles no longer on the track. The train’s 70 passengers, four engine crew and three passenger service attendants were unhurt, but eager to finish their trip to the South Rim. Xanterra South Rim, L.L.C, a concessioner in the park, brought in buses to transport the passengers the rest of the way to Grand Canyon Village while Railway and NPS crews worked to clear snow and ice in order to get the train’s axle back on the track. The locomotive involved in the incident returned to Williams early this afternoon so that a full inspection could be conducted. A replacement locomotive was brought in to complete the train’s scheduled round trip. Additionally, the train delayed its departure from the Grand Canyon by an hour in order to give passengers the full benefit of their visit to the park. Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident was caused by a buildup of ice on the tracks. Although Federal Railroad Administration requires that tracks such as those in the park be inspected two times per week, Grand Canyon Railway makes every effort to inspect their tracks daily. Railway staff confirmed that the Rowe Well section of track was last inspected yesterday. The NPS is continuing its investigation into the incident.

AHPA Annual Christmas Bear Program


The Internet link connects to a News Release from the Arizona Department of Public Safety's (DPS) Web site, provided as a courtesy to the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) to announce their 2009 Annual Christmas Bear Program.


http://www.azdps.gov/Media/News/View/?p=155

Citizen Recognition of Appreciation Award From the Phoenix Police Department

Date: December 15, 2009

Time: 11:00 a.m.

Location: Desert Horizon Precinct (Sub Station)

900 W. Peoria

602-495-5006

On Thursday, October 22, 2009, at 5:12 p.m. Ms. Sheri Stockhaus was on her way home from work when she observed a vehicle with severe front end damage fleeing from the scene of a vehicle collision. There was smoke coming out of the passenger compartment from deployed airbags, and the vehicle was heading north on North 12th Street from North Cave Creek Road.

Ms. Stockhaus took it upon herself to follow the vehicle and obtain the license plate number. She even went further and approached the driver who was still seated in the driver’s seat of the severely damaged vehicle. Ms. Stockhaus relayed the suspect vehicles license plate information and it’s location to a 911 operator.

Ms. Stockhaus then returned to the collision scene to check on the condition of the driver involved in the other vehicle. Police had arrived by the time Ms. Stockhaus returned to the original scene.

Ms. Stockhaus then offered to show officers where the suspect vehicle was located. Ms. Stockhaus stood by with officers as they made contact at a residence corresponding to the carport where the vehicle was parked. Ms. Stockhaus was able to make a positive identification of the driver, which led to the driver’s arrest for leaving the scene of an attended vehicle collision.

This is another great example of the citizens of Phoenix working together with the Phoenix Police Department to make their communities a better place to live.

On Tuesday, December 15, 2009, Ms. Stockhaus will be recognized for her actions by the officers of the Desert Horizon Precinct. The Media is invited to attend as this young lady will be honored with a certificate of appreciation for her brave efforts.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Home Invasion Kidnapping - 8/18/09 - 4100 N. 28th Drive

The following information is from Phoenix Police Home Invasion Kidnapping Enforcement and Family Investigation Bureau detectives:

Victim 1: adult h/f, mother of victims 2 and 3

Victim 2: 2 year old h/m

Victim 3: 11 month old h/f

Suspect 1: unknown b/m; 5’5” tall; heavy set, wearing a camouflage ballistic vest; black ball cap; jean shorts

Suspect 2: unknown b/m; thin; dark green t shirt; blue or black jean pants

Suspect 3: unknown b/m; 5’5”; medium build; dark blue short sleeve shirt; jeans

Suspect 4: unknown b/m; no further information

Suspect Vehicle: white 1990’s Honda or Toyota sedan with possible window tint; no license plate information

Suspicious Vehicle: white Chevy Silverado PU w “Cadillac” emblem on front grill

At 1:30 AM this morning Phoenix Police patrol officers responded to a home invasion call in the 4100 block of North 28th Drive. Upon arrival, officers contacted the mother of the two children. She stated the listed suspects were armed with guns and broke into her home demanding money. The victim said she had none and the suspects kidnapped the two children and left with them in what is described as a white 1990’s Honda or Toyota. There was witness mention of a suspicious vehicle driving in an alley behind the kidnapping scene at or about the time of the crime. That suspicious vehicle was described as a white Chevy Silverado pickup truck with a “Cadillac” emblem on the front grill. There is no description of who was in the pickup truck.

The information was put out to the public via the media as an amber alert was being prepared for release.

Just after 6AM this morning we received a 911 call to a residence in the 100 block of west Beverly in Phoenix. There, according to the residents, they heard screaming outside their front door. They opened the door to find the two kidnapped children crying and sitting in their front yard.

Responding patrol officers and Phoenix Firefighters examined the children and cared for them. They were transported to police headquarters where they were reunited with their mother and family. They were wearing the same clothing as when they were kidnapped.

We are investigating the crimes that occurred. The motive is robbery. Why this home was targeted is unknown at this time. The first goal was to get the children home safely. The mother and children were not physically harmed.

We thank the media for getting the information out and believe that may have caused the suspects to release the children.

Anyone with information as to the suspects’ identity or location is asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. For Spanish call 480-TESTIGO.

Monday, August 17, 2009

Single vehicle roll-over collision leaves one dead

Seat belts were not worn by either occupant and this collision is a reminder of the importance of wearing seat belts.

Date/Time

Saturday, 08-15-09 3:00 am

Location

28000 N. Vistancia Boulevard

Victims

Adam Mendez, 23 years old,

Pronounced dead at the scene

Peoria resident

Fabian Murrietta, 24 years old

Transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries

Peoria resident

On Saturday, August 15, at about 3:00 am a white Kia Sorrento was west on Vistancia Boulevard when the driver lost control of the vehicle causing it to cross the median into the eastbound lanes where the vehicle struck a guard rail and overturned. Victim, Adam Mendez, 23 years old from Peoria, was ejected and was pronounced dead at the scene. The second occupant, Fabian Murrietta, 24 year old from Peoria, was still in the vehicle and was flown to John C. Lincoln North Mountain for his injuries. The investigators from the Peoria Police Traffic Services Section are not certain at this time who was driving the vehicle, what may have caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle and if impairment on the part of the driver may have played a role in the collision.

IIMPACT Detectives bust drop house in Central Phoenix where a Phoenix resident had been abducted after getting off the bus and held

Friday, August 14, 2009
IIMPACT Detectives bust drop house in Central Phoenix where a Phoenix resident had been abducted after getting off the bus and held

Total of two coyotes arrested and ten victims rescued in the IIMPACT operation

On, Aug. 11, 2009, the Phoenix Police Department notified IIMPACT detectives about a Phoenix man who was abducted at gunpoint after he got off of a bus and was walking to his home in the area of 32nd St. and Roosevelt. The man was forced into a van by human smugglers (coyotes) and held in
Publish Post
a drop house at 1008 N. 27th St. for four days until his family paid the coyotes a ransom of $2,800. The man was abducted to replace another victim who had escaped so that the coyotes didn’t have to pay their boss the lost ransom money of $2,800 by losing one victim. The man led police to the drop house where one coyote was arrested following a traffic stop after he was identified by the victim and was seen getting into a truck to flee the house.

At about 9:30 p.m. the Phoenix Police Department’s Special Assignment Unit (SAU) responded and surrounded the residence and detained one remaining suspect and 10 undocumented immigrant victims. The original victim was also an undocumented immigrant, but has been living in Phoenix most of his life. IIMPACT detectives learned the 10 victims had arrived at the drop house earlier that morning and were immediately beaten violently by the coyotes and their shoes were also taken from them. One coyote even threatened the victims with a six-inch knife, which was recovered by detectives. The victims’ families were told if ransom money was not paid their family members would be taken to a more violent place. One victim claimed to have seen one coyote with a handgun; however the handgun was not located at the residence.

Arrested:
• Jose Angel Lopez-Gutierrez, 26, of Mexico
• Ariel Rodriguez-Duarte, 24 of Mexico
The suspects were booked into the Maricopa County 4th Ave Jail on charges of kidnapping, extortion, armed robbery, human smuggling and misconduct involving weapons. The undocumented immigrant victims were turned over to ICE custody.

IIMPACT (Illegal Immigration Prevention & Apprehension Co-op Team) is a multi-agency project managed by GIITEM of the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) that is designed to address rising crime associated with illegal immigration. IIMPACT is comprised of personnel from the Phoenix Police Department, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Arizona Fraudulent Identification Task Force (AFIT). As the name implies, local, state and federal police agencies combine forces to impact international human smuggling organizations operating in Arizona.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Kidnapping/aggravated assault incident SUSPECT: AVITIA, JUAN JOSE


SUSPECT: AVITIA, JUAN JOSE All: The following is an update from investigators to the original release with a request to report an attempt to locate from 1916 E. Illini. Victim 1: 5 year old girl Victim 2: 20 year old woman, mother of the 5 year old Suspect: Avitia, Juan Jose; male; 37 years old; father of 5 year old; in custody for two felony warrants (one is for a sexual offense and the other for forgery) as well as 2 counts each of kidnapping, aggravated assault, burglary, and reckless endangerment for the incident this morning with the two victims. Vehicle: 1998 Cadillac DeVille; four door; AZ AGD8547 (recovered) Phoenix Police responded to two radio calls at 1916 E. Illini just before 5AM today. Neighbors heard windows breaking, screaming, and shots fired. A witness at the home on Illini told responding officers that he had a confrontation with the suspect at 2AM at the Illini address. At that time, the suspect, who does not live there, took his 5 year old daughter and left. No one called police at that time. The suspect returned just before 5AM and that is when windows were broken and shots were fired. It appears the suspect, who already had the child, kidnapped the mother, who was living in the Illini address with the child, and left the scene. Patrol officers searched city wide for the suspect and victims and vehicle as information was given to you all to put out to the public. At 9:49AM a local hospital called to report the mother and child were being treated at the hospital with injuries. Police officers continued to look for the suspect. Information led them to a residence in the 3200 block of South 73rd Drive. The suspect was found by officers and taken into custody without incident. The vehicle was recovered at that location as well.

Flagstaff Missing Person


On 8/14/09 Klaus Lauterbach was reported missing to the Flagstaff Police Department via e-mail by his father Hans-Juergen Lauterbach. Hans last had contact with Klaus on 8/8/09 by text messaging. His father stated Klaus received money from an ATM at the Greyhound Bus Station in Flagstaff on 8/9/09 at 8:29am. Klaus is reportedly traveling with a group on Greyhound Bus and was to visit the Grand Canyon when he went missing on the 9th. Klaus is described as a 20 year old male with brown hair, blue eyes, and thin build and is an Austrian citizen.

If anyone has seen or spoken to Klaus or knows his whereabouts, please call your local police agency. Flagstaff Police Department can be reached at 928-774-1414

Casa Grande Police Looking for Bank Robbery Suspect


bank robbery suspect white male, 40-50 years old 260 lbs tan baseball hat, sunglasses, dark long sleeve shirt see pic On 8-13-09 at around 1256 hours, officers responded to First American Credit Union in regards to a robbery alarm. Several minutes later the bank notified the police department that they were in fact robbed. The suspect handed the teller a handwritten note claiming to have a bomb and took the note back when he left with an unknown amount of money. The suspect was described as a white male, 40-50 years old, 260 lbs, tan baseball hat, sunglasses, dark long sleeve shirt, faded blue jeans gray stubble on face, carrying a small black bag. Silent Witness is offering an award of up to $2000.00 for information leading to an arrest or conviction in this case. Anyone with information about this crime can call Silent Witness at 836-2100 or the Casa Grande Police Department at 421-8700. For full details, go to http://local.nixle.com/alert/195726/

Arizona Department of Public Safety Seizes 1,234 pounds of Marijuana from Interstate 19 Traffic Stops


On Monday, August 10, 2009, officers from the Arizona Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol, Canine Unit, Detectives from the Gang & Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission (GIITEM), and Detectives from the Santa Cruz County Metro Task Force participated in the on going, federally funded interdiction detail in Santa Cruz County. The purpose of this operation is the interception and suppression of criminal activity along the United States/Mexico border and surrounding areas. 49 traffic stops were conducted over the 8 hour detail. Vehicles were stopped for various traffic violations consisting of unsafe lane usage, following too close, unlawful speed, etc. Of those 49 traffic stops, 5 resulted in significant marijuana seizures. All 5 vehicles were searched after officers made contact with the occupants and identified indicators consistent with individuals involved in criminal activity. Ultimately, the vehicles were searched for contraband and the marijuana was discovered. 1. 2007 Nissan Station wagon containing 459 pounds of marijuana 2. 2005 Mercury four door sedan containing 371 pounds of marijuana 3. 1997 Oldsmobile four door sedan containing 316 pounds of marijuana 4. 2000 Buick sedan containing 29 pounds of marijuana 5. 2003 Chrysler four door sedan containing 57 pounds of marijuana A total of 1,232 pounds of marijuana was seized with an estimated street value of $675,000. Detectives from the Santa Cruz Metro Task Force are conducting follow-up investigations as a result of the arrests and seizures. The intent of these types of interdiction details is to enhance law enforcement preparedness and operational readiness along the Mexico / United States border.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Peoria Police celebrate National Night Out with an Open House and Ice Cream Social

Date/Time
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Location
Peoria Public Safety Administration Building
8351 W. Cinnabar Avenue

National Night Out is an annual event to promote crime fighting activity and community partnership building and the Peoria Police Department is holding an Open House and Ice Cream Social to promote community involvement and crime prevention. The Department will be opening its doors to the community so you can meet their employees, see the equipment they use, learn about how you can keep your home safe, meet McGruff, “The Crime Dog” and see numerous home safety and security items.

Its hot outside in August, so the Peoria Police Department is also holding an ice cream social, while the supply of ice cream lasts.

The Peoria Fire Department, Peoria’a three Target Stores and Blue Bell Ice Cream are partners with the Peoria Police Department for this event.

Fire Department offers free training on new CPR technique

About 80 percent of all out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in private residential settings, so being trained to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can mean the difference between life and death for a loved one.

Are you prepared and confident in your ability to perform CPR and use an AED when seconds count?

Scottsdale Fire Department offers free presentations on the new CPR technique called Continuous Chest Compressions (CCC). This technique is easy, safe, and does not require mouth-to-mouth contact. CCC takes only minutes to learn, is easy to perform and can dramatically improve a person’s chance of surviving a heart attack.

Free community workshops on the new CCC resuscitation technique will be held:

2-3:30 pm, Saturday, Aug. 1, 2009 at Fire Dept. Headquarters; 8401 E. Indian School Road

10-11:30 am, Saturday, Aug. 15, 2009 at the Mountain View Community Center; 8625 E. Mountain View Road

6-7:30 pm, Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2009 at Fire Dept. Headquarters; 8401 E. Indian School Road

9:30 - 11 am, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2009 at Fire Dept. Headquarters; 8401 E. Indian School Road

Scottsdale Fire Department staff and volunteers will teach you how to respond to a cardiac emergency including important tips for calling 911, performing chest compressions, and how to use an AED.

Please note: No CPR certification cards will be issued at these presentations. To register, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/fire/CCC-CPR or call 480-312-8000.

For more information or to schedule a group CCC presentation, contact Patty Jo Angelini at (480) 312-1815 or email pangelini@ScottsdaleAZ.gov.

Indecent exposure subject sighted again in Flagstaff


On July 25, at about 11:20pm, a heavy-set, hispanic man in a small, tan SUV drove into the Wicked AZ drive-thru. The man was masturbating in the vehicle as he sat at the window of the business. Minutes after this crime, a heavy-set “hispanic male with a big belly” in the same tan SUV committed the same crime at the other Wicked AZ location. These crimes match the suspect and vehicle descriptions of the crimes which occurred on July 15 on the east side of Flagstaff. If the public has any information on the suspect’s or SUV description, please call the Flagstaff Police Department at 928-774-1414 or Silent Witness at 928-774-6111.

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Update: I-10 collision

On July 24, 2009, at 9:07 a.m., a semi-truck pulling two trailers was traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 when, for an unknown reason, the vehicle veered off the roadway causing the truck to overturn in the right shoulder. The commercial vehicle caught fire immediately. The driver of the semi was deceased on scene.

Driver/Deceased: Shari Wood Linder, 50, of Quinlan, Texas
Co-Driver/Injured: Ricky Keith Linder, 53, of Quinlan, Texas

The truck was carrying automotive products and cleaning products which included aerosol cans.

The fire was so intense it completely engulfed the semi-truck and came in contact with overhead power lines. As a result, Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officers closed both the eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 10 at Picacho Peak.

The westbound lanes were reopened at 1:09 p.m. and one eastbound lane was re-opened at about 1:30 p.m. All lanes of the interstate were open as of 3:40 p.m.

The truck is owned by Saia Trucking. The Linder’s, who were married, were traveling from Blythe, California to El Paso, Texas. They have been driving together as a team for about ten years.

Ricky Linder remains in stable condition with non life threatening injuries at UMC Tucson.

Closure due to fatal collision causing a hazardous materials situation

On July 24, 2009, at 9:07 a.m., a semi-truck pulling two trailers was traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 when, for an unknown reason, the vehicle veered off the roadway causing the truck to overturn in the right shoulder. The commercial vehicle, which was carrying corrosive placards, caught fire immediately. The driver of the semi was deceased on scene. A passenger in the truck was injured.

The fire was so intense it completely engulfed the semi-truck and came in contact with overhead power lines. As a result, Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officers closed both the eastbound and westbound lanes of Interstate 10 at Picacho Peak.

Yuma Fire had their hands full


From Thursday night (7/23) through Friday morning (7/24) the Yuma Fire Department responded to several significant incidents.

Shortly after 9:00 pm a fire was reported at 17th Street and Madison Avenue. Arriving YFD personnel found several pieces of furniture on fire in front of 1701 South Madison Avenue. The fire was extinguished but it had already destroyed two couches and done minor damage to the home’s exterior. This fire is being investigated by both fire and police as a possible arson. There were no injuries.

Shortly before 11:00 pm YFD personnel were called to the scene of a traffic crash on 32nd Street and Avenue 5E. Arriving personnel found the semi-truck and passenger vehicle involved in the crash to be completely on fire. The fire was extinguished but both vehicles were completely destroyed. Four occupants of the semi had escaped the vehicle after the crash and later refused treatment. The passenger vehicle had one occupant, the driver, who was deceased. The crash is being investigated by the Yuma Police Department.

At 1:45 am a fire was reported in the area of the Greyhound Park, 4000 South 4th Avenue. Arriving YFD units found flames and smoke coming from a large structure (once used as a kennel) and surrounding debris. The fire was extinguished but firefighters encountered downed live power lines and high winds. Significant damage was done to the structure, but it was contained to the immediate area of the initial fire. There were no injuries. The fire was believed to have originated at the power pole, which was also on fire.

At 5:15 am heavy smoke was reported in the area of 16th Street and 9th Avenue. Arriving YFD personnel found the source of the smoke to be coming from a home in the 1400 block of 9th Avenue. Smoke and flames were coming from the home at 1425 South 9th Avenue. Firefighters extinguished the fire. The home was not occupied. Significant damage was done to the property, but it did not spread to nearby homes. Fire and Police Department personnel are investigating. There were no injuries.

Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officers investigate an Improvised Explosive Device

On Friday, July 24, 2009, at about 6:07 a.m., Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) maintenance workers located an apparent hand grenade along U.S. 60, near Sossaman Road. The device was an apparent WW II style practice grenade, which had been modified into an improvised explosive device.

Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers, along with members of the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) unit responded to the area. Officers secured the scene and the device was remotely dismantled by EOD personnel. The device was located over a hill, near the sound barrier wall; therefore, there were no road closures along U.S. 60.

The device was rusted and appeared to have been in the area for some time. Anyone with information is asked to contact DPS at pio@azdps.gov

Phoenix Police need your assistance


Ladies and Gentlemen, the Phoenix Police is requesting your assistance with the following:

Dates 27-30 June, 2009

Location 31100 N. Cave Creek Rd.

Suspect White or Hispanic male, 30-40, mustache, wearing a white baseball cap, white Shirt, blue jeans and white tennis shoes

Suspect White, female, 30-40, brown hair, wearing a red tank top and blue jeans

At some time between 27 and 28 June, 2009 unknown suspects forced entry into a home in the area of 41000 N. Cave Creek Rd. and stole several computers, jewelry and credit cards from the victims.

Between 28-30 June, 2009 the victim’s stolen credit card was used by unknown suspect’s at several different retail, grocery and gasoline businesses in the metropolitan phoenix area. The suspect/s charged several thousand dollars with the stolen credit card. Three of the businesses where the transactions took place had video surveillance of the suspects.

At this point the Phoenix Police have been unable to identify the suspects who were recorded using the victim’s stolen credit card and we are asking for the public’s assistance. Anyone who may recognize the suspects in the provided photographs are asked to call the Phoenix Police at (602)262-6151 or Silent Witness at 480-W.I.T.N.E.S.S. As always, callers can remain anonymous

Flagstaff police arrest juviniles in auto theft ring

Flagstaff police arrested a ring of juvenile thieves after they were seen entering vehicles in the Greenlaw Townhomes in east Flagstaff. The police were alerted by residents after hearing dogs barking shortly after midnight. Officers quickly found two of the juveniles matching the descriptions given by the residents. After questioning, the burglars admitted to seven car burglaries Tuesday morning and numerous other burglaries the week before. Stolen from the vehicles were ipods, stereos, and laptop computers. The juveniles were booked into the juvenile detention facility on auto burglary charges.

The public is reminded of the Flagstaff Police Department’s “Move it or Lose it” program for people to remove valuables from the interior of their vehicles and lock the doors while the vehicle is parked.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Major DPS Drug Bust

On Sunday, July 19, 2009, at about 11:05 p.m., an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officer stopped a northbound commercial vehicle, a tractor-trailer, for an equipment violation on State Route 87 near milepost 231. This is about 19 miles south of Payson. During a consent search the officer located 8.7 kilos of a high grade South American type heroin with a street value of $452,400. The inspection also revealed 50 kilos of cocaine with a street value of $1.4 million along with 300 pounds of marijuana with a street value of $157,500. The drugs, along with the tractor-trailer, were seized.

Arrested:

Driver: Albert Chrzaszcz, 36, of Surprise, Ariz.

Owner operator and Co-Driver: Jayson Lyle Shawd, 41, of Mesa, Ariz.

Charges:

Both suspects were booked into the Gila County Jail in Payson, Arizona on the following charges: Possession of a narcotic drug for sale, transportation of a narcotic drug for sale, possession of marijuana for sale, and transportation of marijuana for sale.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

DROWNING IMPACT AWARENESS MONTH

DROWNING IMPACT AWARENESS MONTH IN AUGUST
SAVE A LIFE: WEAR A PURPLE RIBBON

WHAT: Sixth Annual “Drowning Impact Awareness Month” Kickoff, signaling Arizona’s
commitment to child drowning prevention in August. The “purple ribbon”
campaign has distributed more than 50,000 ribbons around the state to date.

WHEN: Tuesday, July 28, 2009
10 a.m.

WHERE: Phoenix Children’s Hospital
1919 E. Thomas Road
(Media parking available on the east side of the Rosenburg Medical Plaza
just south of the main hospital entrance.)

CONTACT: Tiffaney Isaacson, Phoenix Children’s Hospital
(602) 546-1712 or cell (480) 510-0965


Historically, August has been the deadliest month of the year for child drownings, due to extreme heat and back-to-school distractions for families. However, Arizona has seen plenty of headlines already this summer about child drownings. As families struggle to pay for pool fences, swimming lessons, child care, and CPR instruction in this economic downturn, nine children have drowned to date in Maricopa County, as compared to eight children who drowned as of the same time last year.

Arizona unites again this August with the Annual “Drowning Impact Awareness Month” effort. The purple ribbon campaign increases awareness, and is coordinated by Phoenix Children’s Hospital. The key message is that “Awareness is Free,” and vital strategies like supervision can save lives.

HOW TO HELP SAVE A MOTORCYCLE RIDER’S LIFE

PHOENIX FIREFIGHTERS TO SHOW HOW TO HELP SAVE A MOTORCYCLE RIDER’S LIFE AT
BUDDY STUBBS HARLEY DAVIDSON

WHAT: Tutorial on What to Do at the Scene of a Motorcycle Accident Before First
Responders Arrive

WHEN: Saturday, July 25, 2009
Noon

WHERE Buddy Stubbs Arizona Harley Davidson
13850 N. Cave Creek Road
(Indoors in the Showroom)

CONTACT: Alex Rangel, Phoenix Fire Department
602-201-9716 or 602-370-5718

Would you know what to do if you were the first one at the scene of a motorcycle accident? The Phoenix Fire Department will be at Buddy Stubbs Arizona Harley Davidson at noon on Saturday, July 25th to show you how you can help save a life.

There will also be free sandwiches, sodas and water and a contest to win a free ride-along and dinner with Phoenix firefighters.

Flagstaff Attempted Kidnapping


On 07/15/09 at approximately 2:30pm, a female victim was walking northbound on Patterson at Lockett in Flagstaff. The suspect was driving north on Paterson, approached the victim from behind, stopped and asked her to get in his vehicle. The victim stated he was naked and masturbating. Victim told suspect, “no” and continued walking across Lockett. The suspect drove east on Lockett, turned around and waited for victim. At approximately Lockett and Steves Blvd., the suspect pulled up next to the victim, exited his vehicle naked and grabbed the victim telling her “come on baby, get in the car”. He repeated this several times and forcibly attempted to get her inside the vehicle. Victim yelled and fought back, kicking, slapping and scratching at suspect as he soon let her go. Suspect entered vehicle and left westbound on Lockett. Suspect is a Hispanic male approximately 25-35 years old. He is about 5’7” to 5’9” and has a chubby build and a big belly according to the victim. He also has chubby cheeks and a full moustache. Hair is shaved on sides with short length on top, somewhat combed back. No clothing description because the victim says all he had on was brown socks, nothing else. Suspect is driving a newer model SUV, possibly Chevy blazer or like model, which was described as a greenish/brown (possibly grayish) in color. The vehicle was reported to be missing it’s license plate and has tinted windows and loud music system. No markings, damage, stickers or other identifying marks known. This could very well be related to another reported Hispanic male masturbating in a grey SUV at the Flagstaff Mall at approximately 2:15pm. If anyone has information on this case or might know the person and SUV which matches the above description, please call Det. Brad Conway at 928-607-9159 or silent Witness at 928-774-6111. you may be eligible for a cash reward of $1,000.00

DPS investigates rollover collision with numerous victims

Arizona Department of Public Safety investigates rollover collision with numerous victims

Vehicle carried suspected illegal immigrants; human smuggler/driver arrested

On Wednesday July 15, 2009, at approximately 5:22 p.m., the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) received several 911 calls concerning a white SUV that had rolled over several times while traveling southbound on Interstate 17. DPS Metro-west patrol officers learned the vehicle was on Interstate 17 near Pioneer Road when, for some unknown reason, the vehicle left the roadway and rolled. It eventually landed in the median.

Six people riding in the SUV were ejected and seriously injured. One injured person was still in the vehicle and had to be extricated. The two most seriously injured are ages 15 and 16. They were both flown to John C. Lincoln Hospital where they remain in critical condition. The rest of the injured passengers were adults. The driver of the SUV fled the scene on foot. Phoenix police canine units and a Phoenix police helicopter initiated a search for the driver in the desert area near the crash scene.

At approximately 11:00 p.m., Phoenix Police received information about the suspect who was standing near a pay phone near the Carefree highway about one mile from the interstate where the rollover occurred. DPS officers responded and arrested the suspect. He has been charged with numerous counts of aggravated assault along with human smuggling and money laundering.

All victims in this collision, including the suspect, are Mexican nationals.

Bullhead City responds to Hazmat at casino


On Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at 14:08, the Bullhead City Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team was requested to assist the Clark County Fire Department with unknown material leaking from a 53 foot enclosed trailer. Assistant Fire Chief and Lead Hazardous Materials Technician Joe Anderson responded with four additional technicians, the Hazardous Materials Emergency Response Trailer to Laughlin. Due to the temperatures of over 110 degrees, Chief Anderson called for additional assistance from the Fort Mojave Mesa Fire Department and the Mohave Valley Fire Department. Each department dispatched two additional technicians. Upon arrival Technicians donned proper Protective Suits to examine the leak. A lock on the rear of the trailer was cut to gain access. The trailer was caring many large drums of hazardous materials. Technicians observed the leaking drum. There were drums and large boxes that would need to be removed to gain access to the leaking drum. A call was place to Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort to obtain if a fork lift was available to assist with the removing some of the non-comprised drums and boxes from the trailer. The Riverside made arrangements and within fifteen minutes a fork lift arrived The fork lift removed boxes that allowed space in the trailer to access the leaking drum. Much of the liquid was pumped into a safe empty drum supplied by the hazardous materials team. The leaking drum was then placed into a larger safe drum also supplied by the hazardous materials team. At this time the scene was determined to be safe. Clark County Fire Department would remain on scene and await the arrival of H2O. H2O is a hazardous materials clean up company from Las Vegas. The company was expected to arrive at approximately 20:00. They will take control of the hazardous materials in the two drums. The material was determined to be corrosive waste water. Used to rinse acid from other materials. The material was placed in a metal drum. It should have been placed in a lined drum or plastic drum. It is believed the drum leaks over 30 gallons through the drum and trough the trailer floor. The tractor that would tow the trailer was in Kingman. The Nevada Highway Patrol was also on scene the entire time and had made contact with the driver.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Double homicide 711 N. 6th Street

The following information is from investigators and witnesses:

Victim 1: adult w/m, no further information
Victim 2: adult w/m, no further information
Suspect 1: adult h/f
Suspect 2: adult h/m
Suspect vehicle: tan van

At 2:19 A.M. this morning Phoenix Police officers were called to the scene at 711 N. 6th Street. Officers found the victims shot to death in the home. The motive at this time appears to be drug or robbery related or both.

One victim has been identified but the other has not. NOK has not been notified on the identified victim.

There is minimal information at this time on this incident so investigators will not be releasing much information. They are currently serving a search warrant at the scene, which is standard operating procedure.

The unknown suspects may have been seen driving a tan van in the area.

Anyone with information is asked to call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS or 480-TESTIGO.

Yuma Fire House Facts Sunday July 5, 2009 through Saturday July 11, 2009


The Yuma Fire Department responded to 198 emergency calls for services 10 Commercial Assignments Including: A palm tree fire, and various false alarms 1 Mutual Aid Assignment Including: assisting the Yuma County Sheriff’s Office with a body recovery 10 Motor Vehicle Crashes Including: 1 involving a pedestrian, and 2 involving three vehicles 159 Other Medical Emergencies (serious to minor) Including: 19 for difficulty breathing, 6 for chest pain, 21 fall victims, 23 unconscious people, 6 seizure cases, 3 diabetic emergencies, 4 possible stroke cases, 2 calls for an overheated person, 2 suicidal patients, 4 possible overdose cases, 2 allergic reaction, 1 woman in labor, 1 infant locked inside of a vehicle and misc. other illnesses and injuries. 16 Special Duty, Public Assistance, and Residential Assignments Including: A residential fire, a pole on fire, a fire intentionally set to a cardboard box that spread and destroyed a wheat field, juveniles setting leaves on fire behind a business, 2 vehicle fires, an ammonia leak from a portable cooling equipment trailer, and various alarms Last week an entire an un-harvested wheat field was lost due to a fire that spread from its original location. A fire was intentionally set to some cardboard and then spread to the nearby field with heavy winds. This reminds us that we live in an arid area that does present risks for fire. - Use extreme care in the use of all fire, and potential fire causing activities, whether it is for industrial, home, or recreational use. - Make sure campfires and smoking materials are fully extinguished. - Use spark arrestors in mechanical equipment such as chain saws and off-road vehicles. - When you pull off a roadway, be sure not to park in grassy areas. - Check the regulations on fires. Many areas will be closed to all fires (including charcoal grills) due to the extreme dry conditions - Be aware of other weather conditions, such as the wind speed and direction. Un-permitted fires are unlawful and also result in unnecessary Fire Department responses. Fortunately Yuma does not have much of the “wildland-urban interface” where brush and forest lands enter into our community, but we do have large amounts of agricultural land. Traditionally our biggest threat has been along the river. Development of parkland areas along the river, like the West and East Wetlands, has reduced the threat to the community by reducing fuel and adding green space areas. However, this threat is not completely eliminated and if you are traveling to other areas of our state or surrounding states, please use caution and obey all fire regulations. Every year, wildfires account for millions of dollars in property damage, and cause serious injuries and deaths. Safety is no accident!

Monday, July 13, 2009

Fatal collision 13, July 2009

Phoenix Police:
There was a fatal collision just after 9:30A.M. this morning at 51st Avenue and Cactus Road.

All the following information is from Phoenix Police Department Vehicular Crimes Unit investigators:

A gray 2005 Kia van driven by 57 year old Ronald Denton Grotjan was south bound in the curb lane on 51st Avenue, failed to stop for the red light, and collided with the 1998 white Honda Civic driven by a 69 year old woman that was east bound on Cactus Road on a green light.

The front seat passenger in the Honda Civic, 83 year old Frances Eggen, was taken to a hospital but, tragically, died.

Grotjan was impaired (investigators believe on drugs) and tried fleeing the scene. His vehicle quit running once and he got it started and drove off again but it quit once more. Witnesses stopped him and kept him at the scene south of the accident until officers arrived.

After an investigation at the scene, investigators had Grotjan booked into jail for manslaughter, endangerment, and leaving the scene of the collision.

Shooting of 8 year old Child


The following information is from Phoenix Police homicide investigators:

Victim: 8 year old boy (nephew of suspect)
Suspect: Cruz, Javier Gudino; h/m; 24 years old (uncle of victim); booked for being a prohibited possessor of a firearm, child abuse, and discharging a firearm - booking number P564143

On 7/12/09 at 1:45 PM, the 8 year old victim was in the living room at 919 E. Turney
Avenue. Somehow, the victim and three other children, ages 4, 4, and 6 years old, got hold of a handgun. A round was discharged striking the victim in the face. The aunt and uncle found the victim. The uncle carried the victim to the front yard and then took the handgun and tossed it between the wall of the house and a masonry wall surrounding the yard. At some point someone called 911.

The call originally came in as an injured person that someone fell down the stairs. The responding Phoenix Firefighters immediately determined that was not the case and advised the Phoenix Police Department.

The victim was transported to a local hospital where he is still in critical condition. The three children were interviewed by forensic interviewers who speak Spanish. Homicide investigators determined the uncle is a prohibited possessor due to his undocumented immigration status. He had the handgun out earlier in the morning and discharged it in the yard after drinking and having a fight of some kind where he was cut up. Investigators determined that he left the handgun on a small wall in front of his house where the children located it and the victim was shot.

The suspect had to be treated for the prior injuries from the fight before being booked into jail.

This investigation is continuing.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

PUBLIC’S HELP NEEDED | Flagstaff Police


July 10, 2009

On May 30, 2009 an unknown subject stole the gift basket from a wedding reception held at the Radisson Hotel on W. Route 66. The basket contained cash and gift cards intended for the Bride and Groom. A guest at the wedding saw the suspect in the restroom with the gift basket and gave a description to the police. On May 31 at a little after 8:00am, the suspect was caught on tape using several of the gift cards at the Target store on S. Milton in Flagstaff.

The suspect is described at a white male, 6’1”, stocky build, with brown hair and clean shaven. If anyone sees the person in the photo, please call the Flagstaff Police Department at 774-1414 or Silent Witness at 774-6111.

Monday, July 6, 2009

IIMPACT detectives locate and dismantle two drop houses in west Phoenix

Fifteen coyotes arrested and thirteen victims rescued, including four children

On Sunday, July 5, 2009, detectives from the multi-agency Illegal Immigration Prevention and Apprehension Co-Op Team (IIMPACT) began investigating a complaint received from a local woman who said her boyfriend had re-entered the U.S. from Mexico after recently being deported and was being held captive in a Phoenix area house. The woman said the captors had held him since June 26th and were initially demanding about $1,200 for his release. By Sunday, July 5, 2009, the ransom was raised to $3,000, and if it wasn’t paid the captors, or coyotes, threatened to beat up and then behead the woman’s boyfriend and dump his body in the desert. Through investigative efforts, IIMPACT, which includes officers from the Phoenix Police Department, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS), located the house where the woman’s boyfriend was being held. Five suspected human smugglers (coyotes) were arrested following a vehicle and foot pursuit by Phoenix Police following an attempted traffic stop after they were seen leaving the suspected drop house (today) on Monday, July 6, 2009. A canine unit from the Phoenix Police Department and the agency’s Firebird Air Support assisted in capturing the initial coyotes. Later, two female suspected human smugglers were stopped and taken into custody after leaving the house.

Also this morning at about 9:00 a.m., a SWAT team from the DPS Special Operations Unit served a search warrant at 2827 W Campbell, Phoenix. The SWAT Team located 15 people in the home who are all believed to be illegal aliens. Of the 15, two suspected human smugglers, both male, were taken into custody. Of the victims, nine were female, including a seven-year-old and a two-year-old child. Of the males, one was 12-years-old and another three-years-old. The victims are believed to have been in the house for up to one week and all claim to be Mexican Nationals. The victims are in fair condition and have not required or requested medical attention. No significant fortifications were found in the residence.

One of the victims informed IIMPACT detectives about a second location at a Motel 6 where additional human smugglers were hiding out. At about 10:00 a.m. this morning, a DPS SWAT Team made entry into a room at the Motel 6 near Indian School and I-17. Upon entry, six suspected human smugglers were located and no victims.

The 15 suspected human smugglers (coyotes) arrested were booked into the Maricopa County 4th Ave Jail on extortion and human smuggling charges. All are believed to be Mexican Nationals.

PHOENIX FIRE MAKES AN ARREST IN THE BRET TARVER FIRE

Phoenix, AZ. — The Phoenix Fire Department has arrested Chris Benitez for the murder of their fellow firefighter Bret Tarver in the Southwest Supermarket fire on March 14th, 2001. The arrest occurred in Texas on July 4th, 2009.

On July 5th, they made two additional arrests on another fire that occurred at 5414 S. 40th Street. This was also a murder/arson case. The two people arrested were Jeffrey Otto, 19 years old, and Moniza Murillo, 20 years old.
At this time Phoenix fire investigators are also looking into ten other fires which occurred in Phoenix:
* 3002 N. 70th Avenue
* 1731 W. Corona Avenue
* 1434 E. Palm Lane
* 5431 W. Osborn Road
* 301 E. Butler Drive
* 71 Biltmore Estates Drive

* 5647 S. 14th Avenue
* 6511 N. 27th Avenue
* 16820 N. 18th Street

* 4145 W. Sweetwater Avenue

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

IIMPACT Detectives locate and dismantle drop house in the Maryvale

Fire House Facts
Sunday June 14, 2009 through Saturday June 20, 2009

The Yuma Fire Department responded to 203 emergency calls for services

6 Commercial Assignments
Including: Various alarms such as water flow, smoke detectors, and heat detectors

24 Motor Vehicle Crashes
Including: 2 involving pedestrian, 1 involving a motorcycle, and 1 rollover

150 Other Medical Emergencies (serious to minor)
Including: 13 for difficulty breathing, 18 for chest pain, 23 fall victims, 11 unconscious people, 3 seizure cases, 9 diabetic emergencies, 1 possible stroke case, 3 suicidal subjects, 1 allergic reaction, 1 possible overdose, 1 infant locked inside of a vehicle, 1 gunshot victim, 1 stabbing victim, 1 near drowning, 1 dog bite victim, Two coyotes arrested and six victims rescued including a 12-year-old female

On Sunday, June 21, 2009, detectives from IIMPACT began investigating a complaint received from a woman in Florida who said her son had recently entered the U.S. from Mexico and was being held captive in a Phoenix area house. The woman said the captors were demanding about $2,200 for the release of her son or he would be beaten and/or killed. Through investigative efforts, IIMPACT detectives located the house where the woman’s son was being held. Two suspected human smugglers (coyotes) were arrested following a traffic stop after they were seen leaving the suspected drop house on Monday, June 22, 2009.

On Monday, June 22, 2009, the Arizona Department of Public Safety Special Operations Unit (SOU) served a search warrant at 5706 W. Virginia Ave., Phoenix. The SOU Team located six people in the home, all believed to be illegal aliens. Of the six, two were female, a mother and her 12-year-old daughter, and four males, one being a 15-year-old. The victims are believed to have been in the house since this past Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20; all claim to be Mexican Nationals. The victims are in fair condition and have not required or requested medical attention. It appears the residence has been operating as a drop house for some time without power service. Existing bars on exterior windows of the house were used by the coyotes as fortification, no other significant fortifications were found.

Two Suspected Human Smugglers (Coyotes) Arrested:
• Alehandro Carmona-Clanca, 37, of Mexico
• Javier Torres-Jimenez, 24, of Mexico
Both suspects will be booked into the Maricopa County 4th Ave Jail on extortion and human smuggling charges.
** NO Photo’s Available **

IIMPACT (Illegal Immigration Prevention & Apprehension Co-op Team) is a multi-agency project managed by GIITEM of the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) that is designed to address rising crime associated with illegal immigration. IIMPACT is comprised of personnel from DPS, Phoenix Police,
ICE and the Arizona Fraudulent Identification Task Force (AFIT). As the name implies, local, state and federal police agencies combine forces to impact international human smuggling organizations operating in Arizona. ###

This weeks Yuma Fire House Facts


1 spider bite victim,1 call for smoke inhalation, 2 calls for a dehydrated person, 1 possible poisoning, and misc. other illnesses and injuries.

23 Special Duty, Public Assistance, and Residential Assignments
Including: A house fire, three calls for cooking fires, a dumpster fire, a wheat field fire, and various alarms

Cooking fires are the number one cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Just last week the Yuma Fire Department responded to three separate fire calls that involved cooking. Every year hundreds of Americans die, thousands more are injured, and roughly half a billion dollars in property damage results from cooking fires. Unattended cooking is a major reason these fires occur.

A reason for one of last week’s fire responses was when a pan with a loaf of bread was stored inside an oven, and the oven was turned on. Older children in the home were going to make muffins, and did not check the oven for storage prior to preheating it. One great way to avoid these types of fires is to never store anything inside of your oven. It is easy to forget down the road when you go to bake something, or if someone else goes to bake something.

Always assist older children in the kitchen, and supervise their activities. If you are simmering, baking, boiling, or roasting rood, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking, and use a timer to remind you the stove or oven is on. Even boiling water can lead to a fire if left unattended and the water boils away.

Have a kid free zone at least 3 feet around the stove/oven. Keep handles turned in so small children won’t pull on them, dumping hot food, oil, or water on top of them. If your stove has knobs that children can reach, get safety covers for them.

Always stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen, for even a short time, turn off the stove. Be mindful of unexpected distractions (phone calls, visitors, etc.) that take your attention away from your cooking.

The Yuma Fire Department wants your family to follow this recipe for safety! Stop kitchen fires before they start!