| The trial of Dr. Bradley Schwartz will commence with jury selection on February 28, 2006 before the Honorable Nannette Warner in Pima County Superior Court. Sylvia Lafferty and Richard Platt, both experienced homicide prosecutors, will represent the State in the case. The trial is expected to last four to six weeks.
| 2/21/2006 | | Pinal County IT Director Genene Walker has authorized the creation and implementation of a new website for the County Attorney's Office specifically for purposes of updating events related to the Bigger-Schwartz homicide case being tried in Pima County. "We were glad to be able to assist," noted Walker. "We're all here trying to provide excellent service to the public and this is one more example of carrying that mission forward."
| 2/22/2006 | | FLORENCE- Oracle resident James P. Walsh will take over the reigns of the County Attorney's Office from Carter Olson, who has resigned to take a seat on the Pinal County Superior Court. A five member citizens screening committee recommended Walsh to the Supervisors after a two week review of qualifications and an interview. William McLean, a member of the screening committee, said the County received only one application for the position. It was determined by the committee that Walsh had the appropriate qualifications to take over the County Attorney's office. The qualifications include being a lawyer in good standing with the Arizona State Bar and a registered Democrat (since Olson was elected as a Democrat to the office). "I tell you that application is from an individual who has just an incredible background," McLean said. "It is with a great deal of pride on behalf of our committee that I recommend James P. Walsh for the position." Walsh has worked for Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard since 2003 as Chief Deputy. He also has experience supervising and managing a public law firm in civil and criminal practice. Outgoing County Attorney Olson also recommended Walsh to the position as he took the dais with the Supervisors. Olson said there are two questions that surface when recommending a person for the job-"Do they have the will and the qualifications," he rhetorically asked. The County Attorney explained that the job entails long hours and great stress. "It is much to ask anyone to take on this important responsibility," he said. In summing up his recommendation, Olson said: "What stands before you is an extraordinary candidate in James P. Walsh. In all humility, better qualified to take on this position than I was 11 years ago when I was appointed by this body to the County Attorney position. But the challenges now are much greater than 11 years ago-the challenges are much more complex." Following the recommendations, the Supervisors unanimously approved the appointment of Walsh as the new County Attorney. He will take over the position when Olson is sworn in to the Superior Court on Friday, May 18. Following his appointment as County Attorney, Walsh said he looks forward to tackling the job and does not plan any major changes in the office. "This is an experienced office," Walsh replied. "Stability and continuity are two of the most important things you want in an office such as this, especially with all the changes that are going on in this county."
| 5/4/2007 | | James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney, has announced the consolidation of several programs into a new Community Services Division. This division, which was approved by the Pinal County Board of Supervisors, will build upon the variety of services currently offered by the County Attorney’s Office and establish an improved connection to the citizens of Pinal County. The new division includes Victim Advocacy, Victim Notification, the Bad Check Program, and Diversion Services. These programs, all providing services to businesses, victims and citizens, will be further enhanced by Walsh’s office restructure. Mary Jane Damron has been named the new director. Ms. Damron has directed the Criminal Diversion Unit for several years and is a veteran of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office. “By combining these programs into one Division our office will be more responsive to the people of Pinal County” said Walsh. These services are aimed at helping citizens and merchants deal with being victims of crimes, recovering restitution from a bad check, or a simple theft, and assisting victims with their legal rights. Walsh also announced that the victim services component of the Community Services Division will be comprised of Victim Advocacy and Victim Notification. Tawnya Cude, an experienced current employee, has been appointed the Manager of Victim Notification. A new manager for Victim Advocacy will be the subject of a statewide search. James P. Walsh was appointed the County Attorney in May by the Pinal County Board of Supervisors. If you would like more information about the services offered above, please contact the Pinal County Attorney’s office at (520) 866-6813 or 1-800-208-6897 extension 6813 or visit our web page at www.co.pinal.az.us/attorney.
| 6/13/2007 | | FLORENCE- Ms. Ellie Brown of Oracle has been hired as the Administrative Director of the Pinal County Attorney's Office. She began work on Monday, August 13, 2007. Ms. Brown will be responsible for the administrative services of the office which supports the activities of the various divisions. The office currently has 130 employees and administers a budget in excess of $12 million. "We are pleased to have Ellie join us and feel that she will be an extremely valuable addition to the office," said County Attorney James P. Walsh. "Her experience and education combined with her intimate knowledge of the workings of county government make her uniquely qualified to be our Administrative Director." Ms. Brown is a long time resident of Oracle and formerly served as the Justice of the Peace in the Oracle Precinct. She has been employed by Pinal County in various capacities since 1991, and is very familiar with county procedures and personnel. Her experience will be of great value in co-coordinating the activities of the County Attorney's Office with the county administration and in dealing with the courts and other state agencies. Most recently Ellie has served as liaison for limited jurisdiction courts for the Pinal County Superior Court. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Administration and Management from the University of Phoenix, and her Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. She is also a Certified Public Manager and serves on the Board of the Pinal County Chapter of Certified Public Managers. Ellie is married to Steve Brown and has three children and two grandchildren. She enjoys playing the piano, softball and reading. She is a member of Oracle Softball League, St. Helen's Choir, the Eastern Pinal County Domestic Violence Coalition, the Restorative Justice Panel, and the Oracle Firewise Committee
| 8/20/2007 | | FLORENCE- The Pinal County Attorney's Office has requested clarification from the Pima County Medical Examiner's Office concerning the findings in the autopsy report for Amber Hess. Until the requested clarification is received, no additional charging decisions will be made.
| 8/21/2007 | | FLORENCE – On October 5, 2004, Tucson residents were shocked to learn of the brutal murder of a pediatric eye doctor in the parking lot of the medical complex where he worked. The well-liked husband and father of two built a successful practice caring for children. Then Dr. Brian Stidham was found in his office parking lot with a fractured skull and brutally stabbed 15 times. His car was missing. At first, it looked like a vicious but random carjacking. Later Tucsonans would learn a far darker story. One colored by deceit, torrid love affairs, rage, jealousy, narcotic drug use and a stunning murder-for-hire scheme. On Saturday, the National District Attorneys Association presented its highest honor to Pinal County Chief Criminal Deputy County Attorney Richard Platt and Deputy County Attorney Sylvia Lafferty. Platt and Lafferty are the latest inductees in the "Home Run Hitter's Club" for successfully prosecuting Stidham's murderer and a co-conspirator. Dr. Bradley Schwartz, conspired to have his former business partner, Dr. Stidham, killed by a hit man. Thanks to the tireless efforts of Platt and Lafferty, Schwartz was convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and is now serving a 25 year to life sentence. Schwartz' hired hit man, Ronald Bruce Bigger, who ambushed and stabbed Dr. Stidham 15 times, is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole. Bigger was convicted of first degree murder and conspiracy to commit first degree murder. The investigation uncovered conflicts of interest among attorneys in the Pima County Attorney's Office. The case was prosecuted by Pinal County after several Pima County Deputy Attorneys found themselves fired or disciplined for conflicts of interest. Publicity and media interest ran high throughout the investigation and the grueling 19 weeks of trial. Lafferty and Platt interviewed 184 witnesses and called on 144 witnesses during the trials. Hundreds of exhibits were introduced and more than 30,000 pages of documents were disclosed before and during the trial. Court TV covered the case, along with several daily newspapers and television media. Both trials were featured on the CBS program "48 Hours – Mystery." Numerous motions were filed as the case wound its way through the justice system and there were multiple hearings on the admissibility of evidence such as DNA tests. Conflicting testimony from expert witnesses and witness credibility issues including schizophrenia, drug addiction, gang involvement and felony convictions made the prosecution extremely difficult. Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh noted the tremendous personal sacrifices involved in prosecuting such a complex case. "No matter how dedicated you are, a trial this complex and emotionally exhausting takes its toll on you and those around you, especially your family," Walsh said. "The attorneys deal daily with the vivid realities of a murder and the sordid details of a criminal's life. In this particular case, the whole community was dealing with the cruel loss of a beloved family man and respected doctor." Pima County Attorney Barbara LaWall nominated Richard Platt and Sylvia Lafferty for the "Home Run Hitter" honor. According to its website, the National District Attorneys Association "annually inducts a select few prosecutors into the Home Run Hitters Club, to recognize their outstanding work in trying complicated and difficult high profile cases." This is not the first major recognition for Platt and Lafferty. Last year they were named Felony Prosecutors of the Year by the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys' Advisory Council. "I was proud to nominate Richard Platt and Sylvia Lafferty for the National District Attorneys Association Home Run Hitters Award," LaWall said. "Their performance on behalf of Pima County was truly outstanding. I am proud that Arizona prosecutors worked together to ensure public safety throughout our state." Other recent honorees include Tom Sneddon, the Santa Barbara County district attorney who prosecuted the Michael Jackson case; and James Brazleton, the Stanislaus County district attorney who prosecuted Scott Peterson for the murder of his wife.
| 12/5/2007 | | CENTRAL ARIZONA COLLEGE - In 1990, then Pinal County Attorney Gilbert Figueroa began a small art contest in local schools to find out who could draw the best anti-drug message. The contest was named in memory of former Pinal County Superior Court Judge Robert R. Bean who had recently succumbed to cancer. The best pictures were placed in a month-to-month calendar with the 12 best drawings featured. The idea was to have children show their peers the dangers of drug use. Seventeen years later, the tradition continues, albeit with some minor modifications to the original month-to-month calendar format. On Thursday, December 13, County Attorney James P. Walsh kept the contest alive and well by honoring finalists, their families and teachers at a ceremony to unveil the poster-sized 2008 Anti-Drug Calendar poster. "This contest is open to all sixth graders in Pinal County," the County Attorney said. "Over 500 entries were received and a panel of judges narrowed the field to 60 finalists. Once those were chosen the real work began since all the artwork was very impressive." Walsh said that the panel of nine judges culled the 60 finalists to 9 winners with a grand prize winner, a T-shirt winner and a Tattoo winner. T-shirts featuring the anti-drug message and temporary tattoos will help spread the anti-drug message among impressionable young people. "I'm glad I wasn't a member of the judging panel," County Attorney Walsh joked. "It was a difficult decision." Speaking before a group of student finalists and their parents in Central Arizona College's Pence Auditorium, Walsh congratulated those who made the final cut. "Your work will be there for all to see," stressed Walsh. "Your art may give one of your friends the courage to say 'no' to drugs. As Alexa from Thunder Mountain Middle School says on her drawing: With drugs the only winners are losers. Well, none of you are losers." The guest speaker of the night was State Senator Rebecca Rios (D-District 23). With two young children of her own, Senator Rios says she understands the stresses the students face each day at school and with their friends. She related a story about a family member who passed away at a very young age by "huffing" drugs. Rios told the students that one action resulted in a death that changed their family forever. Senator Rios also brought up a childhood experience where she won a contest in school with a drawing of a Christmas tree. Looking at the students, Rios said "What you are doing here is very significant. What I did was draw a Christmas tree. You are doing something much more profound. I urge you to continue to share your anti-drug message." The nine students whose artwork is on the 2008 design were photographed with County Attorney Walsh at the McFarland Courthouse and State Park in Florence. The group photo is in the center of the poster with the winning drawings arranged around the photograph. Walsh said 12,000 posters were made and will be distributed to Pinal County schools and businesses. This year's grand prize winner was John Bribiescas, a sixth grader from Mammoth Elementary School. Bribiescas' art teacher, Valerie Rickert, received a check for $500.00 for classroom supplies. Second place went to Alvaro Alvarez from Mammoth Elementary School and third place went to Isaiah O. Iguado from Red Rock Elementary School. All nine artists whose drawings appear on the 2008 calendar will be treated to a field trip to the Challenger Space Center at the Tucson Air and Space Museum, along with their classmates.
| 12/14/2007 | | The Pinal County Attorney's Office has completed the review of what has become known as the Florence desert party case, involving allegations of sexual misconduct at a desert party outside of Florence, Arizona on October 27, 2007. As a result of that review, the Pinal County Attorney has made a decision not to file criminal charges against any of the participants in the event. Prosecutors may only file criminal cases when they are able to prove all elements of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Based on the investigation conducted by the Florence Police Department, the office believes that it would be unable to meet that burden of proof at trial.
| 12/17/2007 | | FLORENCE- In Wednesday's Board meeting, the Supervisors approved the appointment of Michelle Krstyen as Chief Deputy of the County Attorney's Child Support Division. Krstyen, a 13 year employee with the County Attorney's Office, has spent all of her career with the Child Support Division. She was named Bureau Chief in 1999 after working as an attorney for the Division since her employment began in 1994. County Attorney James P. Walsh was satisfied with the Supervisors decision. "I am very pleased that the Board of Supervisors has recognized the important role played by the leader of the Child Support Division by creating a new Chief Deputy position and approving my choice of Michelle Krysten to that post," County Attorney Walsh said. "Michelle and the Child Support Division have been doing outstanding work and last year collected almost $18 million in child support for Pinal County residents." In October 2006, Krstyen was recognized with a Congressional Certificate of Special Recognition for Outstanding and Invaluable Service to the Community. Since 1999, the Pinal County child support collections have gone from $7.9 million to an expected $20 million in 2008. "Child support services are available to anyone who lives in Pinal County," Krstyen said. "As a single parent, I appreciate how hard it is to raise children, go to school and work. I can think of no better way to serve the people of this County than by working in the Child Support Division." Krstyen added that if anyone has questions about child support in Pinal County, please call the information line at 520-866-6615.
| 12/21/2007 | | FLORENCE- Pinal County Superior Court Judge, Stephen McCarville, sentenced Jeremy Dean Garcia, aged 37, of Apache Junction, to 133 years in prison following his conviction for numerous counts of Child Molestation and Sexual Abuse. Under the terms of the sentence, the defendant will have to serve 102 years day for day, and as to the remaining 31 years, he will have to serve eight-five percent (85%) before he is eligible for release. Garcia was convicted after a four day jury trial on October 26, 2007. The case involved conduct with several minors over a period starting in 2000 and continuing through 2006. Victims made separate disclosures to authorities over a one year period of time. The crimes occurred in Apache Junction. The trial, held in October, 2007, lasted four days and resulted in convictions for nineteen out of twenty-six counts. County Attorney, James P. Walsh, stated: "This case was exceedingly difficult from both a factual and investigative standpoint.. Deputy County Attorney, Craig Raymond, assisted by Deputy County Attorney, Jill Sosin, did an excellent job of pulling this case together and trying it. They are to be commended for both their tenacity and their trial presentation under difficult circumstances."
| 1/4/2008 | | The Pinal County Attorney's Family Advocacy Center will again be aided by the Coolidge Cotton Days Biker Run. The Center, located in Toltec, is dedicated to reducing stress among children who are the victims of crime while they are going through the investigative process. Opened in March of 2005, the Center houses detectives, forensic interviewers, child protective workers, and other professionals involved in investigating cases of abuse and molestation of children. This multidisciplinary approach avoids having to take children from one agency to another but lets them remain in a safe and comfortable environment. In 2007 the Center served 572 children who would have otherwise had to have been transported to either Maricopa or Pima County. This is a substantial increase over 2006 when 317 children were seen at the Center. "The welfare of the children and their families is our highest concern. But the Center also saves substantial time and costs for local law enforcement as well as for parents who receive services in our community rather than in another county," said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. The Family Advocacy Center will have a display table on Saturday, February 23, 2008, near the registration area for the Biker Run. The public is invited to come by the booth and learn more about the Family Advocacy Center. A check will be presented to the Center at a later date. Last year's donation was used to provide clothing, food and toys for the children. "I am grateful to the Coolidge Chamber of Commerce and the Biker Run for their generosity," said Walsh. "Their support of these children and families enduring traumatic experiences is exemplary."
| 2/14/2008 | | FLORENCE - On Friday, February 22, Civil Deputies from several Arizona counties arrived in Florence for the quarterly meeting of the State Civil Deputies Association. Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh provided welcoming comments to the group. "Since Florence is centrally located in Arizona, we host the meeting occasionally," Pinal County's Chief Civil Deputy Chris Roll said. "Other counties host it as well." Twenty attorneys were on hand for the Friday meeting and others were in attendance by telephone. While the County Attorney is one of the main faces of law enforcement throughout Arizona, the Civil Deputies serving under them have a significant role in the County's legal process. "Civil Deputies represent the County Board of Supervisors and elected officials, county departments, special districts and school districts," Roll explained. Roll is frequently seen at the Pinal County Board of Supervisors meeting offering legal advice on issues throughout the session. "This group was set up to provide an opportunity to discuss current topics and issues for civil attorneys," Roll stated. "It is really a working forum for exchanging ideas and also provides an educational opportunity for us." One of the items on the agenda for the attorney's was a legislative update from Craig Sullivan who is the director of the County Supervisors Association. While the legislature has been in session for just over a month, the information was plentiful on bills moving through the House and Senate. "It's always helpful to hear what is transpiring at the State Capitol," said Chris Keller, Chief Civil Deputy for Maricopa County and co-chair of the organization. "It gives us the 'big picture' of what will affect the counties as a whole. There are many different dynamics going on at the state level, the update helps us see where certain things are heading." For many attorneys attending the quarterly meeting, the meeting is a chance to share ideas and learn what may be heading their way when it comes to legal issues facing counties and their officials. "This meeting is important because it helps all of us learn about issues that affect other counties," Keller said. "While a particular issue being presented may not apply to you or your jurisdiction right now, you may be seeing it in the future. It's important to learn how another county handled an issue so you may be prepared to address it when it comes your way." Karen Friar, Chief Civil Deputy from Pima County says the group is very important for the educational aspect it gives the attorneys. "A lot of what we discuss relates directly to the County as an organization. There is no other forum that provides such specific detail on current affairs and offers important educational opportunities," Friar added. By participating in the quarterly meeting, attorneys can earn Continuing Legal Education (CLE) credits which are required to maintain their membership in the Arizona Bar Association. Attorneys must earn 15 CLEs per year.
| 2/22/2008 | | | 6/5/2007 | | Pinal County Attorney, James P. Walsh, and Sheriff Chris Vasquez, working with local law enforcement agencies have begun a program for safe disposal of unused prescription drugs. They are setting up a series of collections around the County where citizens can bring these drugs in for safe disposal. The drugs will be collected and destroyed in a safe manner by the Sheriff’s Department.
A collection point will be set up at the PolarFest Celebration on December 13. 2008, at the Walker Butte School. The hours will be from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Most of us have been to the doctor and been given a prescription which we did not completely use. These drugs accumulate in our homes and medicine chests where they are basically forgotten.
These drugs are now becoming a threat to both the environment and our children. When they are flushed into the sewer they get into the water table where they eventually may wind up in our drinking water. Several studies around the country have found traces of these drugs in the water supply.
Another threat from these drugs arises when teenagers or younger children get access to them. Many of them feel that these drugs will be safe to take because a doctor has prescribed them. Certainly, a doctor would not prescribe something which is not safe to take. They do not understand that there are serious interactions when these drugs are taken which can have serious, if not fatal, consequences. In fact one teenager in Pinal County has died from taking these prescription drugs.
Young people are having “Pharm Parties” or “Skittles Parties” (named for pharmaceuticals and because mixed up the drugs resemble the Skittles candy) in which they all pour the drugs they have obtained into a bowl and then each takes a handful of the mixed drugs. They then take the mixture of random drugs which they have pulled out.
The source of these drugs is the prescriptions which we did not finish and which are readily available to the youth in our homes. Even when we throw them into the trash they are available to those who pick through the trash for drugs and identifying information about us. The trash normally goes to a landfill which repeats the problem of the drugs percolating into the water supply. | 11/12/2008 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office along with the Mammoth Police Dept. and the Sheriff’s Office would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
Please bring your unused prescriptions to the Mammoth Police Department, located at 125 N. Clark Street, on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Officers and Deputies will be standing by to collect the drugs which will then be destroyed by the Sheriff’s Department in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of. However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 11/14/2008 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office along with the Oracle Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Office would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
Please bring your unused prescriptions to the Mammoth Police Department, located 1475 West American Avenue, on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008, between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Deputies will be standing by to collect the drugs which will then be destroyed by the Sheriff’s Department in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of. However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 11/14/2008 | | The 76th Annual Junior Parada starts at 10 a.m. on Florence Main Street, kicking off the rodeo events.
This youth rodeo is the oldest in the United States of America.
The County Attorney's Office will participate with a float.
For more information please call the Town of Florence at 520 868 4382. | 11/24/2008 | | The Florence and the Coolidge School Districts will jointly organize the Pinal County K-12 Disability Resource Transition Fair.
The fair will take place at the Walker Butte School, 29697 N Desert Willow Blvd, on February 26, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information contact Donna Riffel at Florence High School, 100 S. Main Street, Florence Arizona 85232.
| 12/23/2008 | | The Lost Dutchman Days Parade is long-time Apache Junction tradition, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and the City of Apache Junction.
The event commemorates the old Western tail of a Dutchman lost in the Superstitions looking for gold.
Lost Dutchman Days Parade will take place along the Old West Highway in Apache Junction on Feb. 28 at 9 a.m.
| 12/30/2008 | | The One More Step Coalition is organizing the "Unity in the Community Day" in Casa Grande, celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. efforts to free America from racism.
On Jan. 17 at Peart Park the Coalition will hold a series of events between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
The events include a proclamation by the Mayor of Casa Grande, cultural shows, school band and musical performances and guest speakers discussing America’s fight for equality.
| 12/30/2008 | | The Arizona City Western Daze is sponsored by the Arizona City Chamber of Commerce and will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2009.
The Daze will be held at Sheriff’s Substation on Sunland Gin Road and will feature an old western theme and a carnival.
Visit the fair and try out your shooting skills at the “Showdown System” or visit the Civil War Command Tent.
| 2/10/2009 | | The Pinal County Town Hall 2009 will take on gangs and their effect on our communities.
The April 22-24 event will take place in Casa Grande, at the Holiday Inn and is entitled “GangBusters: It takes a Community”
This year’s Town Hall will explore gang operations, such as recruitment and financing. It aims to educate county leaders about gang culture and equip them with knowledge, which will help them develop strategies to deal with the problem.
| 2/10/2009 | |
The 12th Annual Pinal-Gila Elder Abuse Conference will take place on April 2nd and 3rd, at the Apache Gold Resort, near Globe, Arizona.
The event is organized by the Pinal-Gila Elder Abuse Specialist Team and will focus on issues faced by persons working with the elderly.
If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Lt. Dan Melvin, Globe Police Department (928) 402-1713 or Bob Brown at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office (520) 866-6243.
Also, for forms and more information please visit the County Attorney website.
| 2/12/2009 | |
Office of the
Pinal County Attorney
Press Release
For Immediate Release
April 10, 2008
Contact: Kostas Kalaitzidis
Tel.: 520 866 6699
Cell: 520 548 6061
Local Program Receives Community Awareness Project Funding for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week
Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Community Services Division has received funding from the National Association of VOCA Assistance Administrators (NAVAA) to sponsor the 2009 Victims’ Rights Week series of events.
NAVAA agreed to reimburse the project up to $4,379.
“In these hard economic times financial help from the federal government is very important. With this help we can provide important information to the public and raise awareness for victims’ rights in our communities,” Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh said.
The theme for 2009 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is “25 Years of Rebuilding Lives: Celebrating the Victims of Crime Act.” The dates of the National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW) are April 26 to May 2.
The Pinal County Attorney’s Community Services Division’s application was among 186 from around the country and was selected for the quality of the ongoing efforts to raise public awareness about crime victims’ rights and services available in our community and to commemorate 25 years of Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) accomplishments.
According to Mary Jane Damron, Community Services Division Director, the Community Awareness Project that will be sponsored in Pinal County will showcase our efforts to reach out to victims and raise awareness of victims’ rights in the community.
“The support from NAVAA and OVC for our 2009 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week activities will assist us in helping crime victims,” she said. “Members of our community are encouraged to help promote justice through service to crime victims by joining our 2009 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week activities and by supporting victim assistance programs throughout the year.”
The grant came from the Office for Victims of Crime (OVC), within the Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice, to promote community awareness of crime victims’ rights and services and to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the enactment of the U.S. Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) during 2009 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
The Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) was enacted in 1984 to provide financial support for state crime victim compensation and victim assistance programs. The Act created the Crime Victims Fund through which more than $9 billion has been collected from federal criminal fines and other penalties to support victim services.
Additional resources:
Calendar of Events
| 4/10/2009 | | This anti-drug, anti-alcohol event is sponsored by Adelante Juntos Coalition and is open to all ages. The County Attorney's Office will be holding an informational booth. For more information regarding this event call 520-385-3028.
Location San Manuel Softball field
Start Time 8/4/2009 6:00 PM
End Time 8/4/2009 10:00 PM | 7/31/2009 | | The Eloy Fiestas Patrias are free to the public. This colorful celebration is strictly family oriented, including attractions for all ages. There is no alcohol served or sampled at the Eloy Fiestas Patrias. For more information call the Eloy Chamber of Commerce 520-466-3411.
Where: Main Street Park Downtown Eloy
When: 9/12/2009 9:00 AM to 9/12/2009 11:00 PM | 7/31/2009 | | The 14th Annual Pinal County Domestic Violence Conference will focus on offender accountability and will take place in Casa Grande on Sept. 25, 2009.
The event was organized by the Pinal County Domestic Violence Coalition and will be hosted at the Holiday Inn, located at 777 N. Pinal Ave.
The conference will begin at 7:30 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m.
For questions regarding scholarships, or any other questions regarding the conference, please contact Cathy Bush at: 520-836-0858 or by email at: cathybush@against-abuse.org | 8/31/2009 | | Florence, AZ – County Attorney James P. Walsh presented awards of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office Anti-Drug Poster Contest on Wednesday, Nov. 18.
"This contest is open to all sixth graders in Pinal County," the County Attorney said. "Over 1,000 entries were received this year, up from 840 last year and a panel of judges narrowed the field to 60 finalists. Once those were chosen the real work began since all the artwork was very impressive."
Mr. Walsh was at hand to honor finalists, their families and teachers at a ceremony in Florence where he unveiled the 2010 Anti-Drug Poster Calendar.
Almost 1,100 students sent their anti-drug art to the Pinal County Attorney’s Office continuing an effort to educate children and families on the dangers of drugs. This effort started in 1990 with Roy Mendoza then Pinal County Attorney. It began as a small art contest in local schools to find out who could draw the best anti-drug message.
The contest was named in memory of former Pinal County Superior Court Judge Robert R. Bean who had recently succumbed to cancer.
The best pictures were placed in a month-to-month calendar with the 12 best drawings featured. The idea was to have children show their peers the dangers of drug use.
Nineteen years later, the tradition continues, albeit with some minor modifications to the original month-to-month calendar format.
Mr. Walsh said that the panel of six judges culled the 60 finalists to 9 winners with a grand prize winner, a T-shirt winner and a Tattoo winner. T-shirts featuring the anti-drug message and temporary tattoos will help spread the anti-drug message among impressionable young people.
"I'm glad I wasn't a member of the judging panel," County Attorney Walsh joked. "It was a difficult decision. Our panel worked very hard to chose among an incredible selection of art."
Speaking before a group of student finalists and their parents at The Windmill in Florence, Walsh congratulated those who made the final cut.
"Your work will be an encouragement for all to abstain from drugs," stressed Walsh.
The guest speaker of the night was Gerald Richard, Special Policy Advisor for Law Enforcement at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. He spoke of the dangers of drugs and passionately told children to avoid dealings with strangers.
He engaged the students in a mock convenience store robbery showing how best to react in such a case. His message was not lost on the children and their parents.
In mid-October the nine students whose artwork is on the 2010 design were photographed with County Attorney Walsh at the Superstition Mountain Museum in Apache Junction. The group photo is on the poster with the winning drawings. Walsh said 10,000 posters were made and will be distributed to Pinal County schools and businesses.
This year's grand prize winner Cassie Johnson a sixth grader from the Desert Shadows Middle School of Apache Junction won a $500 prize for her school. Mary Ambrose, Cassie’s teacher, was at hand to receive the check and enjoy her student’s moment of glory. Cassie also received her poster framed with an engraving of her name, school and year of her success.
The T-Shirt winner is Maria Fernanda Flores Coronado from Red Rock Elementary School. About 100 T-Shirts with her art-work on the back were printed and given to all 60 finalists of the contest and other participants.
The Tattoo winner is Mariah S. Rodriquez San Tan Heights Elementary School. Her drawing was reproduced in the form of washable tattoos and 5,000 copies will be distributed to students around the county.
All nine artists won an expenses paid trip to the Challenger Space Center and they get to invite all their classmates to go with them.
| 12/8/2009 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office collected close to $21 million for child support last fiscal year, helping more than 11,500 families throughout the county.
“The Child Support Division collected a total of $20,835,550.00 from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009. This represents a 3.67 percent increase from the previous fiscal year,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “Our people worked hard and succeeded in providing needed resources to Pinal County families in these difficult economic times.”
The County Attorney’s Child Support Division is responsible for the collection of child support for Pinal County families. Most other counties are served by state offices.
“We are closer to the people we serve,” said Michelle Krstyen, Child Support Division Director. “We are proud of our accomplishments, since we also managed this success along with fulfilling all state and federal benchmarks and audit requirements.”
The child support division also established paternity orders for 527 children and 735 new child support orders, during last fiscal year.
“Part of our success is based on our close cooperation with local law enforcement agencies,” Walsh said. “Last fall we implemented a child support arrest warrant project to make sure we provided money for children before the holidays. It was very successful.”
“I would like to thank and recognize the work of Family Law Commissioner/Judge Pro Tem Theresa H. Ratliff of Pinal County Superior Court for her work with us and the County Board of Supervisors for helping us maintain this program, during these trying times, when people need them more than ever,” Walsh said.
| 12/8/2009 | | Subject: Sentencing of Michael Willie Enos
Michael Willie Enos, 24, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, on Friday, Jan. 10, 2010. He was found guilty of Possession of a Narcotic Drug by a Pinal County Jury on Nov. 5, 2010.
Enos will have to serve 100 percent of his sentence.
Enos was also found guilty of two counts of Possession of Marijuana. He was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison for each of those two counts.
“The diligent work of our prosecutors in Pinal County have made an example of those who intend on using illegal narcotics here,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “I am very proud of law enforcement and our Drug Unit, whose efforts protect the families of Pinal County.”
All prison sentences will run concurrently. Enos will have to pay about $4,000 in fines and surcharges.
| 1/20/2010 | |
Phoenix, Ariz. - January 20, 2010 - Attorney General Terry Goddard and Pinal County Attorney James Walsh will host a Crime and Fraud Prevention Forum in Casa Grande on Tuesday, January 26, beginning at 6 p.m. The forum will take place in the Casa Grande City Council Chambers, 510 E. Florence Blvd.
You Tube invitation to the forum:
Goddard and Walsh will be joined by Pinal County Supervisor Chairman David Snider, Casa Grande Mayor Bob Jackson and Chief of Police Robert Huddleston.
The forum, which is open to the public, is being held to increase awareness of local crime trends, discuss prevention strategies and give citizens an opportunity to voice questions and concerns. Topics will include border crime, mortgage fraud, methamphetamine abuse, consumer fraud and identity theft.
Media are invited to re-post this message on their Web sites and community calendars.
Event Information
What: Casa Grande Crime and Fraud Prevention Forum
When: Tuesday, January 26 at 6 p.m.
Where: Casa Grande City Council Chambers
510 E. Florence Blvd.
Casa Grande, Ariz.
Note: This event is open to the media and the public.
| 1/20/2010 | | Florence, AZ - The Second Annual Child Abuse Conference will focus on the issue of the exploitation of children and will take place in Casa Grande on March 19, 2010. The event is sponsored by the Inter-Agency Council of Pinal County and will begin at 8:00 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m. at The Property located in Casa Grande, Az.
Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu will be the Keynote speaker while several specialists will give presentations on the subjects of human trafficking, vice enforcement, and internet sex crimes against children. The conference has been approved for four hours of CLE and AZ POST credit.
The conference is organized by the Inter-Agency Council of Pinal County, which meets and is convened by the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, at the Family Advocacy Center, a division of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
Registration fee is $50 per person, with scholarships being available on a limited basis. Registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, snacks and conference materials.
The mission of the Inter-Agency Council of Pinal County is to protect the children of Pinal County by providing education and information to our citizens. The council brings together all law enforcement, civilian agencies and organizations that operate in the county. It also provides common training and educational opportunities.
Please mail a $50 money order to: Against Abuse, Inc., P.O. Box 10733, Casa Grande, AZ 85130 along with your registration form.
For further information please contact Jerry Smith, Pinal County Attorney Children’s Justice Coordinator at 520.866.7510, or gerald.smith@pinalcountyaz.gov. | 2/22/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office along with the Sheriff’s Office would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
Please bring your unused prescriptions to the new Sheriff’s Substation at 542 East Hunt Highway – in the strip mall area with Fry’s Supermarket - during the Sheriff's Office San Tan Valley Substation Grand Opening and Safety Fair on
Saturday, March 6, 2010, between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Deputies will be standing by to collect the drugs which will then be destroyed by the Sheriff’s Department in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of.
However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
Because of these problems, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office will be holding a Prescription Drug Turn-in during the Sheriff's Office San Tan Valley Substation Grand Opening and Safety Fair.
| 2/22/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office along with the Coolidge Police Dept. and Coolidge Youth Coalition would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
Please bring your unused prescriptions to the San Carlos Park, 320 West Central Avenue during the Coolidge Cotton Days events on Saturday, March 6, 2010, between 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Coolidge Police Officers will be standing by to collect the drugs which will then be destroyed by the Sheriff’s Department in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of.
However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
Because of these problems, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the Coolidge Police Department along with the Coolidge Youth Coalition will be holding a Prescription Drug
Turn-in during the Coolidge Days events.
| 2/22/2010 | | Florence, AZ –A man shot by Maricopa Police on February 8 was indicted by a Pinal County Grand Jury late last week on five counts of aggravated assault, while using a deadly weapon a “Class 3 Dangerous Felony” according to the Arizona Revised Statutes.
Robert Mitchell, 29, verbally threatened five police officers brandishing a shotgun. He was shot in the abdomen and now he is recovering from his wounds at the Maricopa Medical Center. Once he's able to travel, he will be transported to the Pinal County jail for booking.
The incident occurred when Maricopa Police officers, responding to a 1:10 a.m. call from concerned neighbors in the Homestead community, found Mitchell brandishing a rifle in his front yard.
Mitchell was transported by air to Maricopa Medical Center, where he remains. Mitchell is expected to make a full recovery.
| 2/24/2010 | | Florence, AZ – A Pinal County jury late last month found two brothers guilty of aggravated assault for shooting at the car of an off duty border patrol agent, driving just south of Casa Grande.
Isaac J. Martinez, 31, and his brother Arthur Martinez, 36, both residents of Mesa were convicted in a case which seems to have began as a road rage incident.
Isaac J. Martinez fired his handgun very near housing developments at the intersection of East McCartney and North Tucker, south of Casa Grande. His brother Arthur was driving their minivan.
Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh stressed, “We cannot tolerate assault on law enforcement personnel and endangerment of our neighborhoods.”
Martinez claimed the driver of another car shot at him and his brother Arthur Martinez, 36, so they returned fire with handguns. The bullets found the windshield of the car of an off duty border patrol agent narrowly missing him.
The border patrol agent reported the incident to police and the Martinez brothers were arrested on May 19, 2008, while driving north on I-10. They were subsequently indicted for aggravated assault.
"I am very please with the jury’s decision,” said Deputy County Attorney Greg Bizzozero.
Sentencing is scheduled for March 22, 2010 at the Superior Court in Florence.
| 3/5/2010 | | Florence, AZ - The Second Annual Child Abuse Conference will focus on the issue of the exploitation of children and will take place in Casa Grande on March 19, 2010. The event is sponsored by the Inter-Agency Council of Pinal County and will begin at 8:00 a.m. and conclude at 4:30 p.m. at The Property located in Casa Grande, Az.
County Sheriff Paul Babeu will be the Keynote speaker while several specialists will give presentations on the subjects of human trafficking, vice enforcement, and internet sex crimes against children. The conference has been approved for four hours of CLE and AZ POST credit.
The conference is organized by the Inter-Agency Council of Pinal County, which meets and is convened by the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, at the Family Advocacy Center, a division of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
Registration fee is $50 per person, with scholarships being available on a limited basis. Registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, snacks and conference materials.
The mission of the Inter-Agency Council of Pinal County is to protect the children of Pinal County by providing education and information to our citizens. The council brings together all law enforcement, civilian agencies and organizations that operate in the county. It also provides common training and educational opportunities.
Please mail a $50 money order to: Against Abuse, Inc., P.O. Box 10733, Casa Grande, AZ 85130 along with your registration form.
For further information please contact Jerry Smith, Pinal County Attorney Children’s Justice Coordinator at 520.866.7510, or gerald.smith@pinalcountyaz.gov. | 3/5/2010 | | Phoenix, AZ - March 10, 2010) As foreclosures continue at a high rate in Arizona, they impact not only homeowners but also people renting properties that have gone into foreclosure. Attorney General Terry Goddard today provided information about the rights of tenants living in properties that are foreclosed.
Last May, Congress passed the “Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act” to protect renters who were being forced to immediately leave their homes with little notice when the properties they rented went into foreclosure. The law remains in effect until Dec. 31, 2012.
“Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, especially in housing,” Goddard said. “Both landlords and tenants should understand and follow the requirements of the new federal law. All too often consumers can be victimized if they don’t understand their rights and responsibilities.”
Under the Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act:
-- All tenants must receive a 90-day notice before being evicted as the result of a foreclosure.
-- With some exceptions, the law requires that in the event of foreclosure, existing leases for renters are honored to the end of the term of their lease.
-- The stated exceptions are for tenants without a lease, tenants with a lease terminable at will under state law, or where the owner acquiring the property will occupy it as a primary residence. In these cases, the tenants must receive a minimum of 90 days notice to vacate the property.
-- This law does not affect the requirements of any state or local law that provides longer time periods or other additional protections for tenants.
--The new law does not require any agency to issue implementing regulations; these protections apply to foreclosures after May 20, 2009.
-- Although no federal or state agency is specifically charged with enforcing the Protecting Tenants at Foreclosure Act, if a landlord tries to evict a renter without following the law, the renter may be able to raise that as a defense in eviction proceedings.
| 3/10/2010 | | Casa Grande, AZ – Over the last seven months Casa Grande and Coolidge have been the scene of the largest anti-drug operation in the recent history of Pinal County, as 24 suspects were indicted in what became operation “Fertile Ground”.
Police seized large quantities of PCP, methamphetamine, crack and powder cocaine, all very dangerous illegal drugs.
“The Pinal County Attorney’s Office and local police cannot go after the drug-lords of Mexico, but we can take a significant bite out of the local street-level networks which damage our communities and neighborhoods,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney.
The operation was a joint effort of the Casa Grande Police Department, the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s Mobile Enforcement Unit (DEA-MET) and the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
The Casa Grande Police Department led the effort to drive drug traffickers from the city.
“The fight against drugs is a never ending proposition, one that requires ever changing tactics and approaches. We are very pleased with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration and their Mobile Enforcement Team to be willing to come into our Community to work with us, and with our neighboring Law Enforcement Agency Partners to continue to address these problems,” Casa Grande Police Chief Robert Huddleston said. “We have, with their help, made a dent in a huge problem. We and our local partners look forward to a continued productive relationship with DEA so that we may keep the heat on those involved in illegal drug trafficking, and serve to keep our communities safe and secure.”
The Casa Grande PD was supported by the DEA-MET. The DEA-MET groups were formed in 1995 as a way of responding to state and local law enforcement's concerns about the spread of drug trafficking and the associated violence. More than two dozen DEA MET teams operating throughout the United States are tasked with identifying and dismantling violent drug trafficking groups that have gained a foothold in urban and rural areas.
“This investigation illustrates the value of combining the strengths, resources and skills of federal, state and local agencies to fight these drug trafficking networks,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Elizabeth W. Kempshall. “DEA will use all the resources at our disposal to bring down these violent drug dealers who think they can peddle these poisons in our communities without facing justice.”
For about seven months, this task force targeted the sales, distribution and violence associated with PCP and other dangerous drugs in Casa Grande, Coolidge and surrounding communities. During this same period the task force conducted over 100 enforcement operations. Officers of these different agencies worked together to arrest and indict more than 24 accused drug dealers and suppliers.
Two of the indicted defendants traveled to south Phoenix and purchased large quantities of liquid PCP and then distributed this PCP at street-level in the form of “sherm-sticks” (a standard cigarette dipped in PCP). The individual “sherm-sticks” were sold in Casa Grande and Coolidge areas for approximately $10.00 to $15.00 each.
The operation attacked more than a dozen different locations in Casa Grande. A smaller number of locations were involved in Coolidge. The Special Weapons and Tactics team led by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office supported the effort.
"We worked together with the CGPD, DEA and our County Attorney's Office on this operation. This combined effort should send a clear message to criminals that we will aggressively pursue them to achieve justice. We will continue to work with other law enforcement to keep our families safe," Sheriff Paul Babeu said.
Cooperation of different law enforcement agencies played a key role to the success of this operation.
“All the locations are in residential communities that were negatively impacted by brazen drug dealing,” said Kelly Neal, Drug Unit Bureau Chief. “These defendants conducted their activities in shopping malls, gas stations and other public areas. We need to keep our public spaces safe for our community.”
“I call the public to assist us now and in the future,” Walsh said. “We need everyone’s help to protect our communities from predatory drug dealers.”
For further media inquires please contact:
Casa Grande Police Dept.
Michael Keck, Criminal Investigations Commander
520 421 8700
The following group of individuals have been indicted and arraigned:
Name and Age
1. Baldenegro, Justin 28
2. Flores, Sandra Annette 48
3. Gayton, Gabriel 25
4. Gipson, Darick V. 29
5. Gulley, Dedrick Keith 37
6. Jeffries, Lameisha Shavaughn 30
7. Lizzarraga-Ortega, Ulises 25
8. Lopez, Miguel Angel 22
9. Martinez, Nicholas 28
10. Mathis, Jeannette 43
11. Mathis, Virgil 38
12. McKinney, Mary Pearl 53
13. McKinney, Misty Patrice 29
14. McKinney, Reggie 26
15. Negrete Corrales, Joel 23
16. Pineset, Abe Belvin 51
17. Rushing, Charlie Mae 74
18. Rushing, Shamika Rochelle 29
19. Stringfellow, Willie Henry 27
20. Tyler, Wilbert Lee 29
21. Valenzuela-Solano, Juan 29
22. Zuniga, Devan 18
23. Zuniga, Tara 22
| 4/13/2010 | | Florence, AZ - Pinal County will observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week with events taking place from Monday, April 19 to Saturday, April 24.
“This year’s theme is ‘Fairness, Dignity, Respect,’ and it reflects the ideals that inspired the movement for victims’ rights,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “My office and our community will stand in support of those harmed by crime.”
Pinal County residents are invited to join local officials for the kick-off in Florence at 8:30 a.m. Monday, April 19, in front of the Pinal County Superior Court Complex, located at 971 N. Jason Lopez Circle in Florence.
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office and non-profit organizations throughout the county are sponsoring events to promote awareness and inform residents of their rights.
Events include:
• Informational outreach sessions,
• Ice cream social events, and
• A candlelight vigil
(Please see attached schedule)
Recognition of victims’ rights has progressed dramatically since the 1980s. All states and the federal government have comprehensive victims’ rights laws and 33 states, including Arizona, have constitutional amendments to protect victims’ rights. The federal “Justice for All Act” of 2004 and specific Arizona laws also protect victims.
“I am very proud of the hard and often painful work the County Attorney’s Victims’ Services Unit does,” Walsh said. “Crime victims need the advocacy and notification we provide.”
Or
| 4/16/2010 | |
Florence, AZ – A Pinal County jury on Wednesday, April 14, 2010, found Jamin Joel Martinez guilty of armed robbery, kidnapping, burglary in the first degree, trafficking in stolen property and theft for a home invasion that took place on Jan 21, 2008 in Gold Canyon, Arizona.
Martinez, 29, entered a home in Gold Canyon wearing a mask with a screen and a black outfit, pointed his gun at the couple that resided in it and told them to remain in one place. He would then disappear to different parts of the house looking for valuables and reappear to make sure they were complying with his orders. He used a foreign accent and he changed from polite to rude and threatening.
“Home invasion is one of the worst forms of violence. It will not be tolerated in Pinal County,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “My office and I will do our utmost to uphold the constitutionally protected sanctity of Pinal County residents’ homes.”
In addition to the armed robbery and kidnapping convictions, Martinez was also convicted of trafficking stolen property, since he pawned jewelry he took during the January 2008 robbery. A serial number on a Rolex found in a pawn shop gave him away.
Kathryn Pierce of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
Martinez was found guilty of:
• Armed Robbery, class 2 dangerous felony
• Burglary 1st Degree, class 2 dangerous felony
• Kidnapping, class 2 dangerous felony
• Kidnapping, class 2 dangerous felony
• Trafficking Stolen Prop, class 3 felony
• Theft, class 3 felony
A Sentencing will be scheduled later this month at the Superior Court in Florence Arizona.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@co.pinal.az.us
| 5/10/2010 | |
Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Friday, April 30, 2010, sentenced Alec Holtz to 24 years in prison and lifetime probation as a sex offender for the kidnapping and attempted sexual conduct with a minor of a two and half year-old child on July 16, 2009, in Apache Junction.
Holtz, 21, kidnapped a girl that was playing outside a laundromat in the trailer park community where she lived with her family. He took the child to the home of a relative where Holtz lived and attempted to sexually abuse her.
The Apache Junction Police Department and the FBI began an investigation very quickly and found out that Holtz had been seen hanging around the trailer park community. They visited his home and found the little girl in his room. He admitted to police kidnapping the little girl and sexual abusing her.
“The AJPD and the FBI worked fast and efficiently to capture this predator,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “All of us in law enforcement work very hard to keep children safe from predators like Alec Holtz.”
Jason Holmberg of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
Holtz plead and was sentenced to:
• Kidnapping: 24 years in prison.
• Attempted Sex Conduct with a Minor: lifetime probation as a sex offender which requires him to register as a sex offender and be subject to GPS monitoring.
| 5/10/2010 | | Florence - (March 30, 2010) Over 94 percent of Arizona inmates are either violent or repeat felony offenders or both according to the report, “Prisoners in Arizona: A Profile of the Inmate Population,” released today by the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys’ Advisory Council (APAAC). The report offers an accurate, comprehensive and vivid portrait of our state’s prison inmates and counters the erroneous belief that many of the inmates in Arizona’s state prisons are first-time or non-violent offenders.
In November 2009 the Arizona Prosecuting Attorney’s Advisory Council (APAAC) commissioned a study of state prisoners to find data-supported answers to questions that come up many times in the media and in legislative committees.
Past statements of both critics and advocates of the Arizona system of corrections have often been based on anecdotal evidence. This study was commissioned to put an end to that speculation.
“This report will inform the public and policy makers who might be considering reform measures or even early release of prisoners,” Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh said.
Also, the study was necessary at a time of state budget cuts. Arizona Department of Corrections represents about 12 percent of the state budget (about one billion dollars) and may be vulnerable to cuts. In October 2009 the Department of Corrections faced the possibility of a 15 percent budget cut. Such a cut might lead to consideration of an early release program.
“Law enforcement officials – police, sheriffs, prosecutors – work hard to take violent and repetitive criminals off the streets,” Walsh said. “This report confirms that those behind bars are the ones most likely to endanger our communities.”
The study shows that 38,088 inmates (94.2 percent of almost 41,000 inmates) are either repeat felony offenders or have a history of felony violence.
“The people of Arizona need to have accurate information about the makeup of the prison population before any major policy decisions are made,” Walsh said.
According to this report only 5.8 percent of inmates are non-violent, first-time offenders.
| 5/10/2010 | | Statement of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office on the State v. Robert Van Brakel and State v. Travis Aronica cases
The Maricopa County Superior Court, on Tuesday, May 18, 2010 sentenced Robert Van Brakel to 5 years in prison for his responsibility in the death of Calvin Holman, 78, on Dec. 28, 2007.
Mr. Holman, a retired businessman from Paradise Valley, served in the Arizona Legislature from 1975 to 1985. He died in an automobile crash in which Van Brakel and another driver Travis Aronica smashed into Holman’s car on Scottsdale Road about mid-day.
Van Brakel, 45, plead guilty to manslaughter.
On the same day the court sentenced Travis Aronica, 28, to:
- three years supervised probation with standard terms and 60 days deferred jail on count 1.
- three years probation with standard terms on count 2 of the indictment.
The above sentence was based on Aronica’s guilty plea on two counts of endangerment. Aronica also agreed to testify for the State as part of his plea.
There will be a review of Aronica’s jail term on July 8th.
Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Timothy Ryan sentenced both men.
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case because of a conflict of interest at the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney said, “It’s a tragedy that Cal Holman was taken from his family by the thoughtless actions of these two men.”
| 5/19/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Friday, May 29, 2010, sentenced Todd Hoke, 18, and Nicolas Castillo, 19, for the murder of a San Tan Valley area teenager who was killed almost three years ago.
The two teenagers plead guilty to killing 17-year-old Amber LeAnn Hess after the three went to the movies on June 22, 2007. Her parents reported her missing two days later after they arrived home from a weekend vacation. Her body was found stabbed and burned on June 25 2007, in a desert area near the Anthem at Merrill Ranch development in Florence.
Hoke, 16, at the time of the crime, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years, having pled guilty to first degree murder of Hess.
Castillo, 16, at the time of the crime, was sentenced to 22 years in prison having pled guilty to second-degree murder and an additional 2 years in prison for abandonment or concealment of a body. The two sentences are consecutive.
The court also set restitution hearings in September 2010.
Hoke and Castillo have been in jail since their arrest in 2007.
The teens signed plea agreements in late March and were sentenced by Honorable Judge Boyd T. Johnson, Pinal County Superior Court.
Pinal County Deputy County Attorneys Sylvia Lafferty and Susan Crawford prosecuted the case for the state.
| 6/1/2010 | | Florence, AZ – A Pinal County jury on Tuesday, June 1, 2010 found Justin Bowman guilty of 32 counts that included child molestation, sexual conduct with a minor, sexual exploitation of a minor and furnishing obscene materials to a minor.
Bowman, 31, of Maricopa was convicted of crimes committed in 2008 in the City of Maricopa against two children, a boy ten and a girl nine years old at the time the crimes were committed. Police found child pornography on his computer hard drive. Bowman was a former Mesa police officer.
The Maricopa Police Department investigated the case with the assistance of DPS, the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, Child Help, a non-profit organization, and the Family Advocacy Center of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
“I am satisfied with the conclusion of this case. These were horrible crimes committed against very young children,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “This case really stands out as a showcase of the multi-disciplinary approach we have been working on for years. I am proud of the work done by the Family Advocacy Center.”
Bowman faces a sentence, which could include 15 life terms.
Pinal County Deputy County Attorneys Matthew Long and Jason Holmberg prosecuted the case.
The case will go before a Pinal County Superior judge for sentencing later this year.
| 6/2/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Friday, June 11, 2010, sentenced Royzell Devere Williams to 6.5 years in prison for improper influence on a public officer a Class 4 Felony.
Williams, 47, was arrested on July 14, 2009, following a month long investigation by the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.
He was indicted on charges of bribery and offering to exert improper influence on a public officer. Williams was employed as a bailiff at the Pinal County Superior Court in Florence.
The investigation involved an undercover operation. Williams accepted $3500 from a victim in exchange for his promise to influence a Superior Court Judge in a domestic relations case.
He pled guilty to improper influence on a public officer in May 2010.
“Crimes like the ones committed by Williams can shake the public’s trust in the justice system. I will work very hard to preserve and enhance that sense of trust,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “
Richard Platt, Chief Criminal Deputy Pinal County Attorney prosecuted the case.
| 6/11/2010 | | Florence – Chief Criminal Deputy Pinal County Attorney Richard Platt was elected by the State Bar of Arizona Board of Governors to the Office of Secretary-Treasurer on June 8, 2010.
The election took place during a regular meeting of the Board of Governors.
This election will lead to the presidency of the State Bar of Arizona in five years.
Platt has volunteered for different positions with the Bar since 1985. He served on the CLE Committee and the Peer Review Committee.
He has been a member of the Board of Governors, representing Pinal County, since 2001. As a board member he has served on the Long Range Planning and Discipline Oversight Committees.
“I have been serving the State Bar since 1985. As a board member I have worked with nine State Bar presidents. It is this experience I bring to the job,” Platt said. He added that his participation in the organization gives a voice to Pinal County.
“The Board is composed of people volunteering their time to improve the State Bar and the level of services lawyers provide in Arizona,” Platt said.
Platt is a 1980 graduate of the Gonzaga University School of Law, Spokane WA. He received an MBA from the same university in 1980, as well. He graduated from ASU with a Bachelor of Science in 1973.
Platt has been a prosecutor with the Pinal County Attorney’s Office since 1996 and its Chief Criminal Deputy since 1998. He also worked in private practice in Coolidge, AZ from 1983 to 1996 and with the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from 1978 to 1983.
The State Bar of Arizona is a non-profit organization that operates under the supervision of the Arizona Supreme Court. It regulates approximately 15,000 active attorneys in Arizona and provides education and development programs for the legal profession and the public.
| 6/17/2010 | | All elected officials in Arizona swear to uphold the Constitution of the United States. This oath of office combined with the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution leaves no doubt in my mind that my first duty and first loyalty is to the United States Constitution, particularly if there is any conflict with the Constitution and Laws of the State of Arizona, to which I owe an equal but subordinate duty and loyalty.
A serious dispute has arisen about the constitutionality of SB 1070, the recently enacted law which creates new state criminal offenses in the field of illegal immigration and requires local law enforcement to give priority to these crimes. The crimes are in an area of serious and primary federal concern: immigration. One of the disputed issues is whether the federal constitution and federally enacted immigration laws allow Arizona or any state to pass a law like SB 1070. If this area has been “preempted” by federal law, then it would be unconstitutional to enforce SB 1070, which goes into effect on July 29, 2010. All those in law enforcement including police, sheriffs, county attorneys and city prosecutors need to know the outcome of this dispute soon.
I welcome the filing of the federal lawsuit which is designed to get a quick answer from the court on this issue. In doing so I neither applaud nor criticize the current federal approach on immigration. The common agreement is that current federal law and policy on immigration needs to change. No one can deny that Arizona has borne a particular burden caused by the slowness of federal authorities, including Congress, to address this issue.
Nevertheless, I believe the quickest way to get the preemption issue resolved is by the federal lawsuit. The pending private lawsuits (in one of which I am a named party) have standing and ripeness issues that might prevent a court from addressing the merits of the preemption issue and other significant issues before the effective date of SB 1070.
County attorneys are not required to defend the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislature. We are, however, bound by our oath of office to enforce those laws—unless they violate the United States Constitution or the Arizona Constitution. Based on the legal research I have undertaken and that of others which I have reviewed, I have very serious doubts about the constitutionality of SB 1070. A prompt resolution of the preemption issue, and other constitutional issues, will relieve me and all other Arizona law enforcement officials of the dilemma we will face when—and if---the law goes into effect and we must consider our duties under our oath of office.
James P. Walsh
Pinal County Attorney
Florence, Arizona
| 7/9/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Friday, June 16, 2010, sentenced Shamika Rochelle Rushing to 9.25 years in prison for selling illegal narcotics, a Class 2 Felony.
Rushing, 29, was arrested on March 18, 2010, following a seven-month long investigation by the Casa Grande Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. She was indicted on numerous charges of “knowingly selling a narcotic drug.”
Rushing pled guilty to sale of narcotic drugs on July 16, 2010.
The investigation involved an undercover operation. For about seven months, a task force targeted the sales, distribution and violence associated with PCP and other illegal drugs in Casa Grande, Coolidge and surrounding communities. During this same period the task force conducted over 100 enforcement operations. Officers of these different agencies worked together to arrest and indict more than 24 accused drug dealers and suppliers.
“Crimes like these are an assault on our communities and will be prosecuted vigorously,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “We will fight the street-level networks which damage our communities and neighborhoods.”
| 7/22/2010 | | FLORENCE, AZ -- Today's decision by U.S. District Judge Susan Bolton blocked key provisions of Arizona’s new criminal immigration law, popularly know as SB 1070, while allowing other portions of SB 1070 to go into effect tomorrow.
The key provisions which cannot be enforced unless the Court’s ruling is changed or overruled include the new state crimes of failing to complete or carry an alien registration card and trying to secure work while not a legal resident. The basis for the ruling was that the enjoined parts of the new law were in an area preempted by federal law. The Court’s Preliminary Injunction will remain in effect until a trial on the merits unless it is appealed by the State of Arizona in which case the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals could reverse, uphold or modify the decision.
On July 6, I issued a statement on the filing of the federal lawsuit challenging SB 1070 which stated that I welcomed the filing of the federal lawsuit because it would lead to an answer about what could be enforced constitutionally before the law was to go into effect tomorrow, July 29. This has been construed by some to mean that I opposed SB 1070.
As an elected official, I am bound by my oath to enforce the laws passed by the legislature, but also to uphold the Constitution of the United States. I intend to carry out these sworn duties with great care and the utmost integrity. | 7/29/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office Child Support Division announced a record $21.5 million collected for the benefit of children from non-custodial separated or divorced parents.
“This is one of our most important community projects designed to ensure that children are supported by their parents,” Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh said. “Parental support fosters family responsibility and reduces the costs of taxpayer-funded welfare.”
The program was adopted by the Pinal County Attorney’s Office 17 years ago. About 2.7 million dollars were collected that first year and the amount collected increased almost every year since then. More than 12,000 single parents are on the Pinal County Child Support system.
In addition to the child support collections, based on existing court orders, the Division has also established about 600 new child support and medical support orders this past fiscal year. This service is significant because Pinal County has one of the highest out of wedlock and teen pregnancy birthrates in the state.
To achieve its mission the division utilizes an arsenal of collection remedies authorized by state and federal law, such as tax intercepts liens, wage garnishment, license suspension, new hire reporting, levy and seizure of real property. The automated case management system provides the office with a wealth of information and is connected with other databanks which assist the office in locating, enforcing and collecting money from parents with delinquencies.
“Child support services are available to anyone who lives in Pinal County,” said Michelle Krstyen, Chief Deputy County Attorney in charge of the Child Support Division. “As a single parent, I appreciate how hard it is to raise children, go to school and work. I can think of no better way to serve the people of this County than by working in the Child Support Division.”
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office is one of only four to administer this program. The rest of the counties rely on the Arizona Department of Economic Security, represented by the Attorney General’s Office, to collect child support payments. The Pinal County Attorney’s Child Support Program has passed both federal and state audit with high scores every year it has been in operation.
“I believe this program is beneficial to Pinal County residents in large part because it is local,” Walsh said. “The majority of our employees have been with us for more than 10 years. There is no substitute for experience.”
Any person with custody of a child who needs assistance in establishing paternity, a child support or medical support order, or a parent who needs help enforcing a child support order, is eligible to apply for services. Please contact the Child Support Division of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office for further information on your eligibility to use our services.
This month the Pinal County Attorney’s Office Child Support Division invites all of Pinal County residents to celebrate “Child Support Awareness Month,” honoring the people that work so hard to provide for children’s needs. The hard work of child support personnel in Pinal County and throughout the state is recognized by Governor Janice Brewer in a proclamation attached to this press release.
| 8/4/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Wednesday, August 18, 2010, sentenced Willie Henry Stringfellow Jr., to 9.25 years in prison for selling illegal narcotics, a Class 2 Felony.
Stringfellow, 28, was arrested in March, 2010 following a seven-month long investigation by the Casa Grande Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. He was indicted on numerous charges of “knowingly selling a narcotic drug.”
Stringfellow pled guilty to sale of narcotic drugs on Wednesday, August 18, 2010.
“We will relentlessly fight drug trafficking in our communities and neighborhoods,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “We will prosecute vigorously drug crimes committed in Pinal County.”
The investigation involved an undercover operation. For about seven months, a task force targeted the sales, distribution and violence associated with PCP and other illegal drugs in Casa Grande, Coolidge and surrounding communities. During this same period the task force conducted over 100 enforcement operations. Officers of these different agencies worked together to arrest and indict more than 24 accused drug dealers and suppliers.
| 8/20/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The 15th Annual Pinal County Domestic Violence Conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Express in Florence on November 5, 2010. This year’s theme will be “Teen Dating Violence.”
The conference will feature both speakers and panels. It will concentrate on informing participants about the issue and creating the basis for establishing protocols to deal with this type of violence.
Teen violence can be devastating and create long-term problems. It perpetuates behavior that carries over into adulthood leading to domestic violence.
Please visit the County Attorney website for more information as it becomes available.
| 9/2/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office along with the Eloy Police Dept. would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
Because of these problems, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the Eloy Police Department will be holding a Prescription Drug Turn-in during the Eloy Fiestas Patrias. The public is invited to bring their left over prescription drugs to the Pinal County Attorney-Law Enforcement Booth at the Main Street Park on Saturday, September 18, 2010, after the end of the parade and until 2 p.m. Police Officers will be standing by to collect the drugs which will then be destroyed in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
These left over medications need to be disposed of. However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
| 9/1/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Attorney’s Office along with the Casa Grande Police Dept. would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
In order the protect the public, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the City of Casa Grande Police Department will be holding a Prescription Drug Turn-in during the Police Department’s Anti-Crime Night at Carr-McNatt Park.
The public is invited to bring their left over prescription drugs to the Law Enforcement Booth at the Carr-McNatt Partk on Friday, Oct. 1st, 2010, between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Officers will be standing by to collect the drugs which will then be destroyed in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of.
However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
| 9/8/2010 | | NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM
BOARD MEETING
OF THE PINAL COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
AND AGENDA
(Note: for the full agenda please access the pdf document on the front page of this Web site or call 520 866 6699)
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and to the general public that the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD will hold a meeting open to the public on Tuesday, September 21, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona, 85132. One or more members of the Board may participate in this meeting by telephonic conference call. The Board may go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, to discuss certain matters on any of the following agenda items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(2).
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pinal County Attorney’s Office endeavors to ensure the accessibility of its meetings to all persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter by contacting the Commission office at (520) 866-6805. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Agenda for the meeting is as follows:
I. Call to order and Roll Call Chairperson Debra K. Nine
Crime Victim Compensation Board Members:
Patricia R.J. Griffen
Willie M. Masters
John Hernandez
Michael Hing
II. Minutes of the August 10, 2010 Meeting
• Approval of regular meeting minutes
III. Financial Report
• Status of accounts
IV. Cases scheduled for consideration of award
V. Call to the Public
Those wishing to address the Compensation Board need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to directing Board members to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.
VI. Date-Time-Location of Next Meeting
The next proposed Crime Victim Compensation Program Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division (Conference Room), 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, AZ.
VII. Other Business
• Motion to approve travel expenses for Board members attending the September meeting
• Report from Angela Buso, Crime Victim Compensation Administrator (informational)
VIII. Adjournment
A copy of the agenda background material provided to Compensation Board members is available for public inspection at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, 45 N. Pinal Street, Florence, AZ, 85232, (520) 866-6805. This document is available in alternative formats by contacting the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
(Note: for the full agenda please access the pdf document on the front page of this Web site or call 520 866 6699)
| 9/17/2010 | | Florence, AZ – The Early Disposition Court (EDC) in Pinal County is a success. It helped clear hundreds of cases before its first anniversary in December 2010.
As of Oct. 1, 2020 the court is operating two full days a week.
This court began addressing victimless crime in December 2009 and gradually added victim cases. From Jan. 1 through Sept. 24, 2010 EDC was assigned 810 cases and 592 of them were resolved.
“EDC helps the whole criminal justice system provide for timely justice in cases that can be expedited,” County Attorney James P. Walsh said. “This court can minimize expenditures and allow us to redirect our resources as our population grows and demands on existing personnel become greater.”
EDC became a reality with the collaborative participation of the Pinal County Superior Court, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office the Pinal County Public Defender, the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, Adult Probation, and the Clerk of the Court. The Clerk’s Office responded strongly to the new challenge.
“Of course we had to cross-train courtroom clerks to teach them the entire hearing process, since most of them were trained to deal with specific parts of the legal process,” Clerk of the Court Kristi Youtsey Ruiz said. “The courtroom clerks in my office attend fewer hearings and spend less time on cases because the EDC cases can and are usually concluded in one hearing.”
The benefits of the program became apparent during this first phase that began in December 2009 and ended in July 2010. Usually only one hearing takes place. A judge, prosecutors, public defenders, probation officers and courtroom clerks attend that one hearing and fewer or no continuance hearings.
“The EDC is still a project in progress,” Walsh said. “We are still refining the system to make it work for all involved, so that justice is provided while saving money for the taxpayers who foot the bill.”
| 10/8/2010 | |
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Question of the Day:
One in how many women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime?
Please come back Monday for the answer and our next question.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (27/7 Hotline)
| 10/15/2010 | |
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM
BOARD MEETING
OF THE PINAL COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
AND AGENDA
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and to the general public that the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD will hold a meeting open to the public on Tuesday, October 19, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona, 85132. One or more members of the Board may participate in this meeting by telephonic conference call. The Board may go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, to discuss certain matters on any of the following agenda items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(2).
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pinal County Attorney’s Office endeavors to ensure the accessibility of its meetings to all persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter by contacting the Commission office at (520) 866-6805. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Agenda for the meeting is as follows:
I. Call to order and Roll Call Chairperson Debra K. Nine
Crime Victim Compensation Board Members:
Patricia R.J. Griffen
Willie M. Masters
John Hernandez
Michael Hing
II. Minutes of the September 21, 2010 Meeting
• Approval of regular meeting minutes
III. Financial Report
• Status of accounts
IV. Cases scheduled for consideration of award
V. Call to the Public
Those wishing to address the Compensation Board need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to directing Board members to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.
VI. Date-Time-Location of Next Meeting
The next proposed Crime Victim Compensation Program Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division (Conference Room), 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, AZ.
VII. Other Business
• Motion to approve travel expenses for Board members attending the October meeting
• Report from Angela Buso, Crime Victim Compensation Administrator (informational)
VIII. Adjournment
A copy of the agenda background material provided to Compensation Board members is available for public inspection at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, 45 N. Pinal Street, Florence, AZ, 85232, (520) 866-6805. This document is available in alternative formats by contacting the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
| 10/15/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
How many women are beaten in their homes each year in the United States, by their husbands, ex-husbands, or boyfriends?
Answer to previous question:
Question: One in how many women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime?
Answer: One of every four.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/18/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
How many domestic violence related deaths have there been in Arizona as of Oct. 2, 2010?
Answer to previous question:
Question: How many women are beaten in their homes each year in the United States, by their husbands, ex-husbands, or boyfriends?
Answer: About 4.5 million.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/19/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
One woman is beaten by her husband or partner every how many seconds in the United States?
Answer to previous question:
Question: How many domestic violence related deaths have there been in Arizona this year as of Oct. 2, 2010?
Answer: 65.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/20/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
What is the percentage of victims of domestic violence that are women?
Answer to previous question:
Question: One woman is beaten by her husband or partner every how many seconds in the United States?
Answer: 15.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/21/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
What is the percentage range, as reported by police, are domestic violance disputes?
Answer to previous question:
Question: What is the percentage of victims of domestic violence that are women?
Answer: 95%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/22/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
What is the percentage range of women are battered during pregnancy?
Question: What is the percentage range, as reported by police, are domestic violance disputes?
Answer: 40-60%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/25/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
What is the percentage of homeless women and children in this country are fleeing domestic violence situations?
Question:
What is the percentage range of women are battered during pregnancy?
Answer: 25-45%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/26/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
Domestic violence does not end immediately with separation. Over what percentage of the women injured in domestic violence cases are injured after separation?
Question:
What is the percentage of homeless women and children in this country are fleeing domestic violence situations?
Answer: 50%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/27/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
Children in homes, where domestic violence occurs, are physically abused or seriously neglected at a rate of what percentage higher than the national average?
Question:
Domestic violence does not end immediately with separation. Over what percentage of the women injured in domestic violence cases are injured after separation?
Answer: 70%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/28/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
What percentage range of intimate partner homicides, no matter which partner was killed, the man physically abused the woman before murder?
Question:
Children in homes, where domestic violence occurs, are physically abused or seriously neglected at a rate of what percentage higher than the national average?
Answer: 1,500%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 10/29/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
How many women have been raped by an intimate partner at some point in their lives?
Question:
What percentage range of intimate partner homicides, no matter which partner was killed, the man physically abused the woman before murder?
Answer: 70-80%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/1/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
One in how many women have been stalked in their lifetime?
Question:
How many women have been raped by an intimate partner at some point in their lives?
Answer: 7.8 million.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/2/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
How many days of work are missed each year by women in the United States because of domestic violence?
Question:
One in how many women have been stalked in their lifetime?
Answer: One in 13.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/3/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
Answer to previous question:
How many women are killed by domestic abusers each day in the United States?
Question:
How many days of work are missed each year by women in the United States because of domestic violence?
Answer: 8 million.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/4/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
What percentage of women who sought treatment in emergency rooms for violence-related injuries in 1994 were injured by a current or former spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend?
Answer to previous question:
Question:
How many women are killed by domestic abusers each day in the United States?
Answer: 4.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/5/2010 | | Florence, AZ - Town of Florence Police Department along with the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the Anthem at Merrill Ranch Community would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
In order the protect the public, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the Town of Florence will be holding a Prescription Drug Turn-in during the FITT for Life Expo at Anthem at Merrill Ranch.
The public is invited to bring their left over prescription drugs to the law enforcement booth at the Expo located at 3925 North Sun City Boulevard, Florence AZ 85132 on Saturday, Nov. 13th, 2010, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Florence police officers will be standing by to collect the drugs, which will then be destroyed in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parent’s medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of.
However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
| 11/5/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
One in how many female high school students report being physically and or sexually abused by a dating partner?
Answer to previous question:
Question:
What percentage of women who sought treatment in emergency rooms for violence-related injuries in 1994 were injured by a current or former spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend?
Answer: 37%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/8/2010 | | NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM
BOARD MEETING
OF THE PINAL COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
AND AGENDA
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and to the general public that the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD will hold a meeting open to the public on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona, 85132. One or more members of the Board may participate in this meeting by telephonic conference call. The Board may go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, to discuss certain matters on any of the following agenda items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(2).
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pinal County Attorney’s Office endeavors to ensure the accessibility of its meetings to all persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter by contacting the Commission office at (520) 866-6805. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Agenda for the meeting is as follows:
I. Call to order and Roll Call Chairperson Debra K. Nine
Crime Victim Compensation Board Members:
Patricia R.J. Griffen
Willie M. Masters
John Hernandez
Michael Hing
II. Minutes of the October 19, 2010 Meeting
• Approval of regular meeting minutes
III. Financial Report
• Status of accounts
IV. Cases scheduled for consideration of award:
OLD BUSINESS (Cases previously considered):
V. Call to the Public
Those wishing to address the Compensation Board need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to directing Board members to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.
VI. Date-Time-Location of Next Meeting
The next proposed Crime Victim Compensation Program Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division (Conference Room), 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, AZ.
VII. Other Business
• Motion to approve travel expenses for Board members attending the November meeting
• Report from Angela Buso, Crime Victim Compensation Administrator (informational)
VIII. Adjournment
A copy of the agenda background material provided to Compensation Board members is available for public inspection at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, 45 N. Pinal Street, Florence, AZ, 85232, (520) 866-6805. This document is available in alternative formats by contacting the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
| 11/8/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
What are the six types of elder abuse?
Answer to previous question:
Question:
One in how many female high school students report being physically and or sexually abused by a dating partner?
Answer: One in Five.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/9/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
What percentage of stalking cases result in criminal prosecution?
Answer to previous question:
Question:
What are the six types of elder abuse?
Answer:
Neglect
Sexual
Physical
Emotional or psychological
Financial exploitation
Abandonment
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/10/2010 | |
Question of the Day:
What percentage of stalking cases result in criminal prosecution?
Answer: 12%.
Please come back tomorrow for the answer to today's question and our next one.
Domestic Violence: It's EVERYBODY'S Business!
Please join us in supporting Domestic Violence Awareness Month!
Stop Domestic Violence!
Domestic violence should not happen to anybody.
Ever. Period.
But it does-and when it does, there is help. Maybe you lived with abuse, maybe it happened just once; maybe you work or live next to someone who is being abused right now.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members, friends, co-workers, other witnesses, and the community at large.
Children, who grow up witnessing domestic violence, are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life- therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society's next generation of victims and abusers.
Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Community Services Division
Victim Services Unit
Contact information
1 800 208 6897
For more information on receiving assistance, please contact the following resources:
Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence
Tel.: 602 279 2900 or 800 782 6400
www.azcadv.org
National Center for Victims of Crime
Tel.: 800 211 7996
www.ncvc.org
National Organization for Victims Assistance (NOVA)
Tel.: 800 TRY NOVA
www.trynova.org
Victims’ Assistance Legal Organization
Tel.: 703 748 0811
www.valor-national.org
Childhelp USA
Tel.: 800-4Child
www.childhelpusa.org
National Center on Elder Abuse
Tel.: 800-677-1116
www.ncea.aoa.gov
National Coalition Against D.V.
Tel.: 800 799 SAFE (National D.V. Hotline)
www.ncadv.org
Community Information and Referral
Tel.: 602 263 8856 or 800 352 3792 (24/7 Hotline)
| 11/12/2010 | | Florence, AZ – Paul W. Ahler, Maricopa County Attorney’s Office Chief Deputy, will be the newest addition to the Pinal County Attorney’s Office staff on Dec. 6, 2010, as the Pretrial Bureau Chief. The Pretrial Unit is responsible for reviewing most law enforcement referrals and deciding on appropriate criminal charges.
Ahler is bringing with him experience in public service extending back to 1979, most of it as a high ranking member of the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. He has more than 30 years experience prosecuting crime. During that time, he was the Chief Deputy to the Maricopa County Attorney Richard Romley for over 12 years. He also worked at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office. From 2008 until 2010 he was Executive Director of the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys’ Advisory Council.
“I am very pleased Paul is joining us,” James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney said. “He is a veteran prosecutor with the experience necessary for a growing county like ours, having worked through similar challenges in Maricopa County.”
Ahler graduated from Purdue University in Indiana with a BA in Political Science in 1975 and went on to complete a J.D. at Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona in 1978.
He was named the “Arizona Prosecutor of the Year, Maricopa County” three times by the Arizona Prosecuting Attorneys’ Advisory Council (APAAC) and also received the APAAC Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004.
Ahler replaces retiring Pretrial Bureau Chief Jeff Sandler, who is leaving the office after 12 years of service and a total of 26 years of public service in the Pinal County and Maricopa County Attorneys’ Offices. Sandler supervised the Pretrial Unit for the past five and a half years.
| 11/11/2010 | | Florence, AZ – County Attorney James P. Walsh presented awards of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office Anti-Drug Poster Contest on Tuesday, Nov. 30.
“This is a special year for us. We celebrated the 20th Annual Anti-Drug Poster Contest,” Walsh said. "Over 1,300 entries were received this year, up from 1,000 last year. First the field is narrowed to 60 finalists. Once those were chosen nine winners were selected by an independent panel of 11 judges.”
This year's grand prize winner, Annabel Ybarra a sixth grader from Casa Grande Middle School won a $500 prize for her school. Annabel also received her poster framed with an engraving of her name, school and year of her success.
The T-Shirt winner is Vanessa Olivarez from Cactus Middle School of Casa Grande. About 100 T-Shirts with her art-work on the back were printed and given to all 60 finalists of the contest and other participants.
The Bookmark winner is Alejandra Alegria from Red Rock Elementary School. Her drawing was reproduced in the form of bookmarks and which will be distributed to sixth graders throughout the county.
All nine artists won an expense paid trip to the Challenger Space Center with their classmates.
The contest is open to all sixth graders in Pinal County.
Mr. Walsh was at hand to honor finalists, their families and teachers at a ceremony in Florence where he unveiled the 2011 Anti-Drug Poster Calendar.
Almost 1,300 students sent their anti-drug art to the Pinal County Attorney’s Office continuing an effort to educate children and families on the dangers of drugs. This effort started in 1990 with Roy Mendoza then Pinal County Attorney.
It began as a small art contest in local schools to find out who could draw the best anti-drug message.
The contest was named in memory of former Pinal County Superior Court Judge Robert R. Bean who had succumbed to cancer.
Speaking before a group of student finalists and their parents at The Windmill in Florence, Walsh congratulated all those who participated in the effort to reach their peers with effective anti-drug messages.
The guest speaker of the night was Judge William J. O’Neil, former Pinal County Superior Court Judge. Judge O’Neil has been appointed by the Arizona State Supreme Court as the first Presiding Disciplinary Judge for the Arizona Bar Association’s members. He spoke of the dangers of drugs and related his long experience of dealing with drug related crime.
In mid-October the nine finalists whose artwork is on the 2011 design were photographed in front of the former Casa Grande High School, which now serves as City Hall. The photograph along with the art of the nine finalists appear on the calendar.
The 2011 anti-drug Poster Calendars will be distributed to Pinal County schools and businesses. | 12/1/2010 | |
Florence, AZ –A Casa Grande man was indicted by a Pinal County Grand Jury late last week on six counts of kidnapping, robbery, burglary, theft and aggravated assault against District 23 Representative Frank M. Pratt.
The incident occurred on Dec. 25, 2010. Hilyard Bardney Scott, 34, discovered by Pratt in Pratt’s Casa Grande business. Pratt was assaulted and tied up.
“The Casa Grande Police Department did a fantastic job in indentifying a suspect and pursuing him to arrest. Our office will now prosecute these crimes vigorously,” Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh said. “Pinal County residents need to feel safe in their homes and businesses.”
In addition to these charges, Scott has two other indictments pending against him in Pinal County. He was indicted by a Pinal County Grand Jury on charges of aggravated assault and car theft stemming from a Dec. 22, 2010 incident in Casa Grande. Scott was also indicted on charges of domestic violence for an Aug. 18, 2010 incident in Casa Grande.
| 1/19/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – Town of Florence Police Department along with the Pinal County Attorney’s Office would like to see all unused, left over or expired prescription drugs out of people’s cabinets and away from our children and our ground water.
In order to protect the public, the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and the Town of Florence will be holding a Prescription Drug Turn-in during the Spring Festival which will take place at Anthem Way & Merrill Ranch Parkway in Florence.
The public is invited to bring their left over prescription drugs to the Pinal County Attorney’s Booth at the event grounds on Saturday, Mar. 12th, 2011, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Florence police officers will be standing by to collect the drugs, which will then be destroyed in a safe and legal manner.
Left over prescription drugs are in all of our cabinets. They come from prescriptions which we did not finish when we were sick. Some of these are seriously out of date and others are narcotics which should not be lying around.
One of the serious problems among our youth is the misuse of prescription drugs. These are normally obtained from left over drugs in parents’ medicine cabinets. Teens will mix these drugs without knowing that mixing some of them can be dangerous and sometimes fatal.
Another problem is with adults who either do not pay attention or who are confused and accidentally take the wrong drug. This, also, can have serious consequences.
These left over medications need to be disposed of. However, we do not want people to flush them into the water table or to throw them in the trash where they can be recovered by children or others.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 3/8/2011 | |
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM
BOARD MEETING
OF THE PINAL COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
AND AGENDA
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and to the general public that the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD will hold a meeting open to the public on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona, 85132. One or more members of the Board may participate in this meeting by telephonic conference call. The Board may go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, to discuss certain matters on any of the following agenda items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(2).
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pinal County Attorney’s Office endeavors to ensure the accessibility of its meetings to all persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter by contacting the Commission office at (520) 866-6805. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Agenda for the meeting is as follows:
I. Call to order and Roll Call Chairperson Debra K. Nine
Crime Victim Compensation Board Members:
Patricia R.J. Griffen
John Hernandez
Michael Hing
II. Presentation to Willie Masters
III. Minutes of the February 22, 2011 Meeting
· Approval of regular meeting minutes
IV. Financial Report
· Status of accounts
V. Cases scheduled for consideration of award:
OLD BUSINESS (Cases previously considered):
|
VC-09-1203 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
Grossman & Grossman, Ltd. |
$ 325.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1322 |
Request for reimbursement to claimant for out-of-pocket medical expenses for travel and payment to provider for patient portion: |
|
|
|
Travel to dental appointments |
$ 41.01 |
|
|
SW Ambulance of CG |
$ 164.77 |
|
|
Total request |
$ 205.78 |
NEW BUSINESS:
|
VC-11-1353 |
Determine eligibility for compensable medical expenses and reimburse claimant for mental health expenses. |
$360.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1354 |
Determine eligibility for compensable medical expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1355 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1356 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1357 |
Request for eligibility and reimbursement of loss of wages and medical expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1358 |
Determine eligibility for compensable medical expenses and payment of mental health expenses. |
|
|
|
JCM Counseling |
$ 35.00 |
VI. Call to the Public
Those wishing to address the Compensation Board need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to directing Board members to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.
VII. Date-Time-Location of Next Meeting
The next proposed Crime Victim Compensation Program Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 19, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division (Conference Room), 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona.
VIII. Other Business
· Motion to approve travel expenses for Board members attending the March meeting
· Report from Angela Buso, Crime Victim Compensation Administrator (informational)
IX. Adjournment
A copy of the agenda background material provided to Compensation Board members is available for public inspection at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, 45 N. Pinal Street, Florence, AZ, 85132, (520) 866-6805. This document is available in alternative formats by contacting the Pinal County Attorney’s Office.
| 3/14/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – At its Wednesday, April 6, 2011 meeting, the County Board of Supervisors adopted a proclamation declaring April 10, 2011 to April 16, 2011, National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
“This year’s theme is ‘Reshaping the Future. Honoring the Past,’ urging us to remember how far we have come in supporting victims’ rights within the legal system over the past few years,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney, who presented The Proclamation to the Board of Supervisors. “My office will always work to provide support to those harmed by crime.”
Pinal County residents are invited to join local officials for the kick-off in Florence at noon, Monday, April 11, in front of the Pinal County Superior Court Complex, located at 971 N. Jason Lopez Circle in Florence.
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office and non-profit organizations throughout the county are sponsoring events to promote awareness and inform residents of their rights. Events include:
- Informational outreach events,
- Ice cream social events, and
- A candlelight vigil at the Promenade Mall in Casa Grande on Friday, April 15, 2011 starting at 4 p.m.
(Please see attached schedule)
Recognition of victims’ rights has progressed dramatically since the 1980s. All states and the federal government have comprehensive victims’ rights laws and 33 states, including Arizona, have constitutional amendments to protect victims’ rights. The federal “Justice for All Act” of 2004 and specific Arizona laws also protect victims.
“I am very proud of each and every person working for the County Attorney’s Victims’ Services Unit,” Walsh said. “Their work is very often hard and painful.”
For more information go to:
The Pinal County Attorney’s Web site
http://pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/CountyAttorney/Pages/Home.aspx
Or
The National Crime Victims’ Rights Week of the U.S. Department of Justice
http://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/ | 4/8/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh announced the donation of $1,500 in RICO funds to the Tri City Archers Association (T.C.A.) in support of their youth programs.
T.C.A. offers free archery lessons and other services to boys and girls from the communities of San Manuel, Oracle, Mammoth and surrounding areas. The main aim of the organization is to offer an alcohol, drug and gang-free environment for children in an area that has very few activities for them.
“Organizations such as the Tri City Archers Association are vital to short and long-term crime prevention efforts,” Pinal County Attorney Walsh said. “I am happy to help T.C.A. and other grass roots organizations give opportunities for healthy activities to our young people.”
“The year-round archery lessons program serves more than 30 children on a weekly basis. The more they do with such groups the less the temptation to break the law,” Walsh said.
T.C.A. has worked with area schools that have archery on their education programs. The organization has also held tournaments with participants from around Southern Arizona.
The County Attorney’s Office has RICO (Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organizations) funds that stem from seizures of money or property used in gang, narcotics or racketeering related crimes or are the profits of such crimes. RICO fund allocation and uses are governed by Arizona Revised Statutes, Section 13-2314.03.
The Office expends more than 70 percent of its RICO funds for law enforcement activities. The remainder is used for prevention programs, such as support for non-profit organizations, like the Tri City Archers Association that work with youth or the community in general to prevent the causes of crime.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 4/1/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh donated $5,000 from RICO funds to the San Tan Valley’s Copper Basin YMCA in support of the Strong Kids & Families Campaign. The money will be used for scholarships to the YMCA for needy children.
“In these tough economic times we are doing our part to support our communities,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “Some of the money and property seized from criminal activities is used to help our children avoid drugs and gangs.”
The YMCA provides child care, day camp, aquatics programs, youth sports and recreation, teen programs, and much more. The area is unincorporated. Most people moved here in the past 10 years. The facility opened in March of 2005.
Financial assistance makes it possible for every boy, girl, adult, and family to participate in YMCA programs.
“We hold our Strong Kids Campaign annually and hope to raise $64,000 this year,” said Operations Director SaraBeth Levrets.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@co.pinal.az.us
| 4/12/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – A Pinal County Jury found Vianes James Casias Sr, 49, guilty of two counts of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The sentencing is scheduled for June 6, 2011 before Judge Boyd Johnson at the Pinal County Superior Court in Florence.
He was indicted in July 2010 on one count of possession of a dangerous drug a class four felony and a count of possession of drug paraphernalia with intent to use them to consume illegal narcotics a class six felony.
Casias was arrested on Aug. 7, 2008 for possession of methamphetamine. A subsequent search warrant uncovered more drugs in his home in Superior, along with a police scanner and a video surveillance system of his front entrance.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@co.pinal.az.us | 5/6/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – Stanley Kiawe Cox III was sentenced to 12 years in prison, having plead guilty to a drive-by shooting.
Additionally he received a consecutive eight-year sentence for violating the terms of his probation on a conviction for sexual conduct with a minor he was already serving.
When Cox has served his sentence and is released from prison he will be on lifetime probation for having been convicted of having sexual conduct with a minor.
Deputy County Attorney Kate Pierce was the prosecutor of record on this case.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 5/26/2011 | |
Florence – June 16, 2010 – Chief Criminal Deputy Pinal County Attorney Richard Platt was re-elected to the State Bar Board of Governors by the lawyers practicing in Pinal County.
Platt has volunteered for different positions with the Bar since 1985. He served on the CLE Committee and the Peer Review Committee.
He has been a member of the Board of Governors, representing Pinal County, since 2001. As a board member he has served on the Finance, Audit and Discipline Oversight Committees. Currently, he is the Secretary-Treasurer of the State Bar.
“Public lawyers have a very important role to play in service to the State Bar,” Platt said. “I have been serving the State Bar since 1985. ”
Platt is a 1980 graduate of the Gonzaga University School of Law, Spokane WA. He received an MBA from the same university in 1980, as well. He graduated from ASU with a Bachelor of Science in 1973.
Platt has been a prosecutor with the Pinal County Attorney’s Office since 1996 and its Chief Criminal Deputy since 1998. He also worked in private practice in Coolidge, AZ from 1983 to 1996 and with the Spokane County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office from 1978 to 1983.
“I am very pleased that the lawyers of Pinal County chose Richard Platt to again serve as our representative at our State Bar Board of Governors,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “Richard brings the important and unique perspective of public lawyers and his dedicated work for the profession and the public.”
The State Bar of Arizona is a non-profit organization that operates under the supervision of the Arizona Supreme Court. It regulates approximately 16,000 active attorneys in Arizona and provides education and development programs for the legal profession and the public.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 5/27/2011 | |
Florence, AZ - The Arizona Court of Appeals upheld the conviction of Ronald Bruce Bigger in the case of the Brian Stidham murder.
Pinal County Chief Deputy County Attorney Richard Platt and Chief Trial Counsel Sylvia Lafferty successfully prosecuted Bigger in May 2007. Bigger was sentenced to life in prison for killing Stidham, a Tucson ophthalmologist, having been convicted of conspiracy to commit murder and first-degree murder.
"We are satisfied with the Court's decision," Chief Trial Counsel Sylvia Lafferty said.
Bigger’s attorney’s attempted to overturn the conviction and sentence imposed on their client.
Bigger was convicted for receiving $10,000 from Dr. Bradley Schwartz to kill Stidham who was stabbed multiple times near his office on Oct. 5, 2004. Schwartz was a former partner of Stidham’s.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov | 5/27/2011 | |
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM
BOARD MEETING
OF THE PINAL COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
AND AGENDA
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and to the general public that the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD will hold a meeting open to the public on Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona, 85132. One or more members of the Board may participate in this meeting by telephonic conference call. The Board may go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, to discuss certain matters on any of the following agenda items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(2).
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pinal County Attorney’s Office endeavors to ensure the accessibility of its meetings to all persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter by contacting the Commission office at (520) 866-6805. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Agenda for the meeting is as follows:
I. Call to order and Roll Call Chairperson Debra K. Nine
Crime Victim Compensation Board Members:
Patricia R.J. Griffen
John Hernandez
Michael Hing
Marvin L. Brown
II. Minutes of the May 17, 2011 Meeting
· Approval of regular meeting minutes
III. Financial Report
· Status of accounts
IV. Cases scheduled for consideration of award:
OLD BUSINESS (Cases previously considered):
|
VC-09-1189 |
Request for payment of work loss and counseling expenses |
|
|
|
Claimant Loss of wages |
$ 1,176.00 |
|
|
Journey’s Counseling |
$ 130.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ 1,306.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-09-1203 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
Grossman & Grossman, Ltd. |
$ 357.50 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-09-1243 |
Request for payment of mental health co-payments and reimbursement for mileage, prescriptions to: |
|
|
|
Helping Associates |
$ 260.00 |
|
|
MH mileage |
$ 46.80 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ 306.80 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1303 |
Request for payment of mental health co-payments and reimbursement for mileage, prescriptions and work loss to: |
|
|
|
Work Loss |
$ 846.00 |
|
|
SMMHC |
$ 35.00 |
|
|
Travel to MH sessions |
$ 3.03 |
|
|
Out-of-Pocket prescriptions |
$ 35.62 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ 919.65 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1322 |
Request for payment to claimant of travel expenses to medical/dental appointments: |
$ 45.08 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1340 |
Request payment of medical expense to: |
|
|
|
LifeCare Solutions |
$ 18.86 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1341 |
Request payment of medical expense to: |
|
|
|
Rocky Mtn. Holdings |
$ 1,250.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1344 |
Request payment of medical and mental health expenses: |
|
|
|
San Tan Counseling |
$ 175.00 |
|
|
Banner Ironwood |
$ 695.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ 870.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1346 |
Request payment of mental health expenses: |
|
|
|
San Tan Counseling |
$ 585.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1347 |
Request payment of mental health expenses: |
|
|
|
San Tan Counseling |
$ 130.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1351 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
Helping Associates |
$ 172.25 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1352 |
Request for payment and reimbursement of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
Claimant for out-of-pocket mental health |
$ 80.00 |
|
|
Center for Life Skills Development |
$ 260.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1358 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
JCM Counseling |
$65.00 |
NEW BUSINESS:
|
VC-11-1371 |
Request for reimbursement of out-of pocket medical expenses, related travel and loss of wages |
$ 1,619.67 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1372 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1373 |
Request for payment of medical expenses and reimbursement for loss of wages |
|
|
|
Maricopa Integrated Health Systems |
$ 790.88 |
|
|
Medical Diag Imaging - CG |
$ 340.00 |
|
|
Claimant - loss of wages and travel |
$ 585.16 |
|
|
Casa Grande Regional Medical Center |
$ 2,485.15 |
|
|
Total request |
$ 4,201.19 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1375 |
Request for payment of medical expenses |
|
|
|
Casa Grande Regional Medical Center |
$ 3,903.10 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1376 |
Request payment of medical expenses, travel, work loss and eligibility for mental health expenses: |
|
|
|
Total OOP Medical to Claimant |
$ 674.92 |
|
|
Anesthesia Resources (Surgery) |
$ 50.00 |
|
|
Sonora Quest Laboratories |
$ 17.90 |
|
|
East Valley Diag Imaging - (CT Orbits) |
$ 25.00 |
|
|
Claimant Work Loss |
$ 180.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ 947.82 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1377 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1378 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1379 |
Request payment of medical expenses and related travel not covered by a collateral source |
$ 54.57 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1380 |
Request payment of medical expenses and related travel not covered by a collateral source |
$ 159.50 |
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1381 |
Determine eligibility for compensable medical expenses and lost income not covered by a collateral source |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1382 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1383 |
Determine eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source |
|
V. Call to the Public
Those wishing to address the Compensation Board need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to directing Board members to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.
VI. Date-Time-Location of Next Meeting
The next proposed Crime Victim Compensation Program Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division (Conference Room), 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona.
VII. Other Business
· Motion to approve travel expenses for Board members attending the June meeting
· Distribution / discussion of Arizona Criminal Justice Commission memo regarding eligibility of abortion costs as a compensable medical expense
· Distribution / discussion of FY11-12 funding and new reimbursement procedure
VIII. Adjournment
A copy of the agenda background material provided to Compensation Board members is available for public inspection at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, 45 N. Pinal Street, Florence, AZ, 85132, (520) 866-6805. This document is available in alternative formats by contacting the Pinal County Attorney’s Office. | 6/20/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Friday, May 29, 2010, sentenced Todd Hoke, 18, and Nicolas Castillo, 19, for the murder of a San Tan Valley area teenager who was killed almost three years ago.
The two teenagers plead guilty to killing 17-year-old Amber LeAnn Hess after the three went to the movies on June 22, 2007. Her parents reported her missing two days later after they arrived home from a weekend vacation. Her body was found stabbed and burned on June 25 2007, in a desert area near the Anthem at Merrill Ranch development in Florence.
Hoke, 16, at the time of the crime, was sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole after 25 years, having pled guilty to first degree murder of Hess.
Castillo, 16, at the time of the crime, was sentenced to 22 years in prison having pled guilty to second-degree murder and an additional 2 years in prison for abandonment or concealment of a body. The two sentences are consecutive.
The court also set restitution hearings in September 2010.
Hoke and Castillo have been in jail since their arrest in 2007.
The teens signed plea agreements in late March and were sentenced by Honorable Judge Boyd T. Johnson, Pinal County Superior Court.
Pinal County Deputy County Attorneys Sylvia Lafferty and Susan Crawford prosecuted the case for the state.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov
| 5/27/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court sentenced David Paulson, now 20, to life in prison on Monday, Sept. 12, 2011 for the murder of Randall Davis-Mercier in 2008.
Both Paulson and Davis-Mercier were 17 at the time. Paulson told his 16-year-old girlfriend, Maeghan Rice that he was going to kill Randall Davis-Mercier and drove together to pick him up early in the morning of June 20, 2008. Paulson was hiding under a blanket in the back of the vehicle. Once Mercier was in the truck, Paulson continued hiding, waiting to hear a code word. When he heard Rice say the secret word, he started stabbing Mercier.
Bearing as many as 20 stab wounds, the victim was able to flee from the truck and later died from his injuries. Mercier’s body was found in a ditch near Paulson’s father’s home by Apache Junction Police and the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.
“Paulson committed a particularly heinous crime. Justice was served,” said Pinal County Attorney James P. Walsh. “This was a long and hard trial for the victim’s family and I want of offer my condolences.”
Paulson will be eligible for parole after he serves 25 years in prison. Pinal County Superior Court Judge Gilbert Figueroa conducted the sentencing and Pinal County Deputy County Attorney Greg Bizzozero prosecuted the case for the state.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov
| 9/13/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – The 16th Annual Pinal County Domestic Violence Conference will be held at the Dolce Vita Resort in Apache Junction on November 3, 2011. This year’s theme will be “Serving the Underserved.”
The conference will feature speakers knowledgeable in their perspective field.. It will concentrate on informing participants about the issues and finding ways to reach out to those in most need.
The list of speakers includes:
- Kathleen Ferraro, PhD, NAU: Keynote
- Dianne Barker Harrold, OVC: Native American Survivors
- Denise Hines, Men’s Center, CA: Male Survivors
- Reid Vanderbergh, MA, LMFT: LGBTQ Survivors
- Debora Beck-Massey, OVC: Survivors with Disabilities
The goal of this conference is to provide as much information as possible on these issues in Pinal County.
Registration is now open. Please visit the County Attorney website at http://www.pinalcountyaz.gov/Departments/CountyAttorney/Pages/Home.aspx for a registration brochure or you may visit Against Abuse’s website at www.against-abuse.org or 520.836.1239 to register.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@pinalcountyaz.gov
| 9/15/2011 | |
Florence, AZ – The Pinal County Superior Court on Monday, Aug. 15, 2011, sentenced Richard Little to 28 years in prison and lifetime probation as a sex offender for crimes against two boys in Apache Junction in January 2009.
“The Apache Junction Police Department worked efficiently to capture this predator,” said James P. Walsh, Pinal County Attorney. “All of us in law enforcement are committed to keeping children safe from predators.”
Little, 70 molested the boys and videotaped the sexual encounters. He pled and was sentenced on two counts of molestation of a child, three counts of attempted sexual conduct with a minor and one count of attempted sexual exploitation of a minor.
Matthew Long and Jason Holmberg of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
For more information call Kostas Kalaitzidis at 520 866 6699 or 520 709 1333 or email at Kostas.kalaitzidis@co.pinal.az.us | 8/16/2011 | |
NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING
CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM
BOARD MEETING
OF THE PINAL COUNTY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
AND AGENDA
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD of the Pinal County Attorney’s Office and to the general public that the CRIME VICTIM COMPENSATION PROGRAM BOARD will hold a meeting open to the public on Tuesday, September 20, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona, 85132. One or more members of the Board may participate in this meeting by telephonic conference call. The Board may go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, to discuss certain matters on any of the following agenda items pursuant to A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(2).
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Pinal County Attorney’s Office endeavors to ensure the accessibility of its meetings to all persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter by contacting the Commission office at (520) 866-6805. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
Agenda for the meeting is as follows:
I. Call to order and Roll Call Chairperson Debra K. Nine
Crime Victim Compensation Board Members:
Patricia R.J. Griffen
John Hernandez
Michael Hing
Marvin L. Brown
II. Minutes of the August 16, 2011 Meeting
· Approval of regular meeting minutes
III. Financial Report
· Status of accounts
IV. Cases scheduled for consideration of award:
OLD BUSINESS (Cases previously considered):
|
VC-09-1189 |
Request for payment of work loss and counseling expenses |
|
|
|
|
Claimant Loss of wages |
$ |
1,470.00 |
|
|
Journey’s Counseling |
$ |
65.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ |
1,535.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-09-1203 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
|
Grossman & Grossman, Ltd. |
$ |
227.50 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-09-1243 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses and reimbursement for mileage and prescriptions: |
|
|
|
|
Helping Associates |
$ |
195.00 |
|
|
Travel to MH sessions |
$ |
38.19 |
|
|
Out-of-Pocket prescriptions |
$ |
41.18 |
|
|
|
$ |
274.37 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1303 |
Request for payment of mental health co-payments and reimbursement for mileage, prescriptions and work loss to: |
|
|
|
|
Work Loss |
$ |
1,057.50 |
|
|
SMMHC |
$ |
165 |
|
|
Travel to MH sessions |
$ |
13.20 |
|
|
Out-of-Pocket prescriptions |
$ |
21.54 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ |
1,257.24 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-10-1309 |
Request for payment to claimant for medical/mental health expenses: |
|
|
|
|
MH Counseling and travel |
$ |
661.62 |
|
|
Medical Travel |
$ |
250.86 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ |
912.48 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1346 |
Request payment of mental health expenses |
|
|
|
|
San Tan Counseling |
$ |
455.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1347 |
Request payment of mental health expenses |
|
|
|
|
San Tan Counseling |
$ |
260.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1350 |
Request payment of mental health expenses |
|
|
|
|
Faulkner Counseling |
$ |
130.00 |
|
VC-11-1353 |
Request for reimbursement of medical, mental health expenses and associated travel: MARICOPA CTY CONFLICT |
|
|
|
|
Claimant for out-of-pocket mental health |
$ |
508.65 |
|
|
Claimant for out-of-pocket medical |
$ |
85.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ |
593.65 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1358 |
Request for payment of mental health expenses to: |
|
|
|
|
JCM Counseling |
$ |
65.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1371 |
Request from claimant for reimbursement of out-of-pocket medical expenses and related travel. |
$ |
64.16 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1381 |
Request from claimant for payment medical expenses and work loss. |
|
|
|
|
Banner Desert Medical Center |
$ |
632.66 |
|
|
Loss of Wages |
$ |
231.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ |
863.66 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1394 |
Request for payment of medical expenses and out-of-pocket prescriptions |
|
|
|
|
BME for AZ Center for Hand Surgery, P.C. |
$ |
1,740.16 |
|
|
OOP Prescriptions |
$ |
30.98 |
|
|
Banner Ironwood |
$ |
400.00 |
|
|
Total Request |
$ |
2,171.14 |
NEW BUSINESS:
|
VC-11-1393 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1397 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1398 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable medical and mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1399 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable medical expenses not covered by a collateral source. Expenses pending verification. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1400 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source.
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1401 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1402 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
VC-11-1403 |
Request to approve eligibility for compensable mental health expenses not covered by a collateral source. |
|
|
V. Call to the Public
Those wishing to address the Compensation Board need not request permission in advance. Action taken as a result of public comment will be limited to directing Board members to study the matter or rescheduling the matter for further consideration and decision at a later date.
VI. Date-Time-Location of Next Meeting
The next proposed Crime Victim Compensation Program Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, October 18, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Victim Services Division (Conference Room), 45 N. Florence Street, Florence, Arizona.
VII. Other Business
· Motion to approve travel expenses for Board members attending the September meeting
VIII. Adjournment
A copy of the agenda background material provided to Compensation Board members is available for public inspection at the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, 45 N. Pinal Street, Florence, AZ, 85132, (520) 866-6805. This document is available in alternative formats by contacting the Pinal County Attorney’s Office. | 9/16/2011 |
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