AZDPS ANNUAL REPORT FISCAL YEAR 2016 “COURTEOUS VIGILANCE” CONTENT Opening Letter from Colonel Milstead to Governor Doug Ducey 1 Chapter 1: Introduction 2 Chapter 2: Organization 4 Chapter 3: Budget 8 Chapter 4: Enforcing State Laws 10 Chapter 5: Crime Deterrence and Investigations 17 Chapter 6: Vital Support 25 AZDPS COLONEL FRANK MILSTEAD Opening Letter from Colonel Milstead to Governor Doug Ducey Dear Governor Ducey and the Citizens of Arizona, It is my privilege to submit to you the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s annual report for Fiscal Year 2016. The activities and major accomplishments contained in this report reflect the quality and dedication of the employees of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Although one of our primary functions is patrolling the highways throughout Arizona, this report demonstrates the wide array of other comprehensive services and programs we provide for our citizens and those visiting the state. Employees of the Arizona Department of Public Safety are dedicated professionals who take tremendous pride in the mission of the agency. This report is a summary of our mission to improve public safety by enforcing state laws, deterring criminal activity and providing vital support to the state of Arizona and its citizens. In the past year, AZDPS has become more efficient by: 1. Implementing an electronic fingerprint application system. 2. Decreasing the AZDPS Crime Lab backlog from 5,200 cases in 2013 to less than 2,500 by end FY2016. 3. Championing innovation by instituting regular reviews of operational areas. Thank you for your support and assistance during Fiscal Year 2016. The Arizona Department of Public Safety will continue to strive to be a national model in the law enforcement community; driven by our dedication to professional service, our core values, and our commitment to the citizens we serve. Sincerely, Frank Milstead Director Arizona Department of Public Safety Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 1 Introduction ABOUT THE ARIZONA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY In 1968, the Arizona Legislature created the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS). The agency became operational by the executive order of Gov. Jack Williams on July 1, 1969. Governor Williams’ mandate consolidated the functions and responsibilities of the Arizona Highway Patrol, the Enforcement Division of the State Department of Liquor Licenses and Control and the Narcotics Division of the State Department of Law into one agency. Since its inception, the Department has been given many additional responsibilities and has evolved into a renowned, multi-faceted organization dedicated to providing state-level law enforcement services to the public while developing and maintaining close partnerships with other local, county, state, federal and tribal agencies. On September 1, 2015, at the direction of Governor Doug Ducey, the Department initiated the Arizona Border Strike Force (BSF), a new enforcement initiative that not only targets border crimes but provides a comprehensive collaborative approach to help secure Arizona’s border and thwart transnational criminal organizations. The BSF initiative requires the Department to improve its availability to address border related crimes including: drug trafficking, money laundering, weapon smuggling, vehicle theft recovery, and violent criminal apprehension, as well as evaluating and analyzing criminal intelligence, and enhancing response capabilities in the border region. The objectives of this initiative include integrating and aligning intelligence capabilities and integrated counter-network operations to identify and target transnational criminal and illicit organizations. The BSF prioritizes investigative efforts to deter, disrupt, and dismantle criminal organizations, strengthen MISSION STATEMENT To protect human life and property by enforcing state laws, deterring criminal activity and providing vital support to the State of Arizona and its citizens. 2 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 INTRODUCTION CONT. international, prosecutorial and deterrent efforts against transnational criminal organizations and focuses on unified communications and messaging efforts. Working with the Alliance to Combat Transnational Threats (ACTT) and partnering agencies, the BSF conducted three significant and successful operations in FY2016. These were: Operation Sidewinder in Pima and Maricopa Counties, Operation Bushmaster in Cochise County, and Operation Dome Valley in Yuma County. Collectively, these operations were successful in interdicting 2,011 pounds of marijuana and 89 pounds of methamphetamine before the drugs could be disseminated throughout the country. In addition, 60 suspects were arrested and incarcerated for transportation of illegal drugs and $516,670 was seized under RICO statute, significantly disrupting transnational criminal activities. The success of the BSF, much like the overall success of AZDPS, is predicated with the understanding that law enforcement, working in partnership, has a far better opportunity to make a difference than one agency working alone. In addition to the newly formed Border Strike Force, DPS maintains a highway patrol function, criminal investigations, the Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center (ACTIC) and statewide aviation. The following pages outline the organization, structure and accomplishments of FY2016. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 3 Organization The Arizona Department of Public Safety is divided into four organizational divisions and the Director’s Office. Each division, along with the Director’s Office, has its own unique set of responsibilities in support of the agency’s mission. Each division is led by an assistant director that, with members of the Director’s Office, comprise the Department’s Executive Team. Director’s Office Under the oversight of the Director, the Director’s Office establishes the objectives and structure of the agency and, through the Deputy Director, directs its day-to-day operations. The Director’s Office oversees governmental relations, legal affairs, public affairs, professional standards, inspections, financial services and executive security. In addition, the Director’s Office provides support to the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GHOS), the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board (AZPOST) and the Law Enforcement Merit System Council (LEMSC). Agency Support Division The Agency Support Division (ASD) works to provide vital support to the state of Arizona and its citizens by providing services for other governmental agencies and supporting the other divisions of the Department. ASD houses several key functions such as: aviation services, human resources, training, research and planning, department records, fleet services, facilities services, procurement and logistics. Criminal Investigations Division The Criminal Investigations Division (CID) protects human life and property by enforcing state laws relating to narcotic trafficking, organized crime, intelligence, vehicle theft, gangs, computer and financial crimes, fugitive apprehension and human trafficking. CID provides vital support to Arizona and its citizens by: conducting criminal and administrative investigations for other agencies, hosting and participating in regional task forces, operating the Arizona Counter-Terrorism Information Center (ACTIC) and providing tactical high-risk responses (SWAT and Explosive Ordnance Detail) to acts of extraordinary violence and domestic preparedness incidents. Additionally, AZDPS partners with other public agencies through the Terrorism Liaison Program (TLO) and the Detention Liaison Program (DLO) to identify threats to local communities and distribute information in a timely fashion. 4 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 ORGANIZATION CONT. Did you know? AZDPS originally started out as the Arizona Highway Patrol with a very small force of 14 officers in 1931. This was just 19 years after Arizona gained statehood. Highway Patrol Division The Highway Patrol Division (HPD) is the largest division in the agency and is comprised of troopers assigned throughout the state who fulfill the Department’s mission of protecting human life and property by enforcing state laws on Arizona’s highways. The division combines enforcement, training and public outreach to improve highway safety while attempting to reduce collisions and increase the efficiency of the highway transportation system. The division also enforces commercial motor vehicle laws and certifies school bus drivers and tow trucks. HPD deters criminal activity by patrolling more than 6,800 miles of state and federal highways; serving as the front line in detecting criminal activity on Arizona’s roads and highways. HPD also provides vital support to the state of Arizona and its citizens by patrolling the Capitol district, staffing the Arizona Department of Transportation’s Traffic Operations Center and providing immediate assistance to other local, county, state and federal agencies. Technical Services Division The Technical Services Division (TSD) protects human life and property by enforcing laws related to the regulation of security guards, private investigators, scrap metal dealers, sex offenders and job applicants for specific occupations that require statutorily mandated background checks and fingerprint clearance cards. TSD also assists in the enforcement of laws by hosting and supporting the Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) which provides criminal history information to every law enforcement agency in the State and serves as a conduit to the National Criminal Information Center (NCIC). TSD’s oversight of these regulated areas also serves to deter criminal activity related to vulnerable populations such as children. TSD houses four regional crime laboratories that provide scientific analysis of evidence, technical crime scene assistance, secure storage of evidentiary items, training, and expert testimony to criminal justice agencies in the state. It also houses the Department’s three regionally based operational communications (dispatch) centers throughout the state which provide statewide radio dispatch services to AZDPS, emergency medical services and other law enforcement dispatch centers. TSD also oversees information technology, telecommunications and wireless systems which is responsible for state-wide radio services that not only serve AZDPS but also serves other state agencies such as the Departments of Transportation and Game and Fish. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 5 Executive Team Director’s Office 6 COLONEL FRANK MILSTEAD AZDPS DIRECTOR LT. COLONEL HESTON SILBERT DEPUTY DIRECTOR Highway Patrol Technical Services LT. COLONEL DANIEL LUGO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF HPD LT. COLONEL TIM CHUNG ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TSD Agency Support Criminal Investigations LT. COLONEL WAYDE WEBB ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ASD LT. COLONEL KEN HUNTER ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF CID Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 ORGANIZATION CONT. VISION STATEMENT To be the national model in providing customer-oriented state-level law enforcement services. Core Values “Courteous Vigilance” is the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s motto and guiding principle, which reflects the pride of the Department. We provide quality, reliable and respectful service to the citizens of Arizona while being vigilant in the enforcement of the laws of the State. The following are our core values, supporting the tradition of Courteous Vigilance: • • Human Life: We value, respect and protect • excellence in personal behavior and job Integrity: We are honest and truthful, performance. • Teamwork: We respect and cooperate with that is done by AZDPS employees. fellow employees, other agencies and the Courage: We demonstrate moral and physical community to identify and achieve common courage in the performance of our duties. goals. Accountability: We accept responsibility for our actions. • Leadership: We set examples which influence human life and the rights of all persons. recognizing integrity is the cornerstone for all • • • Citizenship: We are involved in activities which improve the quality of life in our communities. Customer Service: We consistently deliver exceptional assistance. • Communication: We share factual information in a timely manner through various mediums both internally and externally. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 7 Budget The Arizona Department of Public Safety’s budget for FY2016 was $314,274,300. This amount consists of $252,738,800 in appropriated state funding, $21,021,200 in federal funding and $40,514,300 in other funding. This funding has provided for 1,142 sworn employees and 907 professional staff employees. The primary challenges to the budget and expenditures have been: 1) increasing retirement system costs; 2) federal grant reductions; and 3) shifting fund sources. From FY2015 to FY2016, alone, mandated Department contributions to the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) grew by $12.5 million. This increase has been funded by the state, however, the result is that the funding is deferred from technological improvements and staffing. Expenditures of federal grant funds 8 have declined from $32.9 million in FY2012 to $21.0 million in FY2016. This decrease is largely due to the reduction in funding for homeland security infrastructure but increasingly federal grants are becoming more of a burden due to the fact that the Department must front the costs and then be reimbursed. AZDPS continues to look for ways to improve efficiencies in the agency where possible. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 PROTECTING HUMAN LIFE AND PROPERTY BY: Did you know? There are more than 900,000 sworn... law enforcement officers now serving in the United States, which is the highest figure ever. About 12 percent of those are female. Department Expenditures and Sources by Fiscal Year (FY) FY2015 FY2016 General Funding Highway Patrol Fund 12.1% 28.7% 7.7% 12.9% Highway User Revenue Fund Other Appropriated Funds 29.1% 6.7% Federal Funds 15.4% Other Non-Appropriated Funds 14.2% 6.3% 29.9% 6.5% 30.7% * Organizational structure changes affect expenditure reporting. Prior to FY2015, significant portions of what is now the Agency Support Division resided in the Techincal Services Division. The Aviation Bureau moved from the Highway Patrol Division to the Agency Support Division in FY2016. The Director’s Office is contained within the Agency Support Division for expenditure reporting purposes. ** The Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training Board is a separate State agency; however, for expenditure reporting purposes, it is contained within AZDPS. *** Occupied positions at the end of the fiscal year pro-rated for a full twelve months. Source: Annual Budget Requests Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 9 Enforcing State Laws Over the past year, the Arizona Department of Public Safety has met its mission to protect human life and property by enforcing state laws. Some of the most visible law enforcement work at the agency is conducted by the Department’s troopers along Arizona’s highways. AZDPS troopers have a statutory responsibility to enforce both traffic and criminal laws statewide 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Troopers issue warnings, citations and repair orders to motorists who have violated state statutes with a goal of decreasing collisions and fatalities. Priority is placed on identifying and arresting impaired drivers and other driving behaviors that increase the risk of a collision. Special emphasis is also placed on the enforcement of occupant restraint laws and criminal interdiction. In FY2016, troopers at the agency conducted 486,211 traffic stops and generated the following enforcement activity in comparison to the previous four fiscal years: Fiscal Year Traffic Stops Warnings Repair Orders Total Citations Hazardous Citations Restraint Citations FY2012 487,409 211,893 67,365 262,414 145,152 18,442 FY2013 467,115 198,194 55,894 261,117 138,851 29,381 FY2014 487,393 219,496 68,699 250,624 139,318 21,279 FY2015 473,213 215,564 63,629 244,169 131,779 21,545 FY2016 486,211 201,846 59,680 272,282 152,879 25,331 Total Arrests DUI Arrests Drug Related Arrests 12,191 4,471 2,014 11,127 4,126 1,844 11,047 4,053 2,020 10,786 3,792 3,146 13,130 4,159 2,930 Due to the hard work and dedication of AZDPS troopers, there was a 17.5 percent increase in restraint citations, a 9.6 percent increase in DUI arrests, and a 16 percent increase in hazardous collision causing violation citations in FY2016 compared to FY2015. 10 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 ENFORCING STATE LAWS CONT. EVERY 24 HOURS in FY2016, troopers at the Department conducted, on average, more than 1,300 traffic stops and issued more than 700 citations. AZDPS troopers are specially trained and dedicated to enforce traffic laws and federal safety regulations as they pertain to commercial vehicles. Troopers conducted 42,853 inspections on commercial vehicles in FY2016. These inspections help to ensure each vehicle is in compliance with federal safety standards. Of the commercial vehicles inspected in FY2016, troopers placed 4,887 out of service due to violations. In addition, troopers placed 5,291 commercial vehicle drivers out of service for failing to meet safety standards and/or failure to obey traffic and/or criminal laws. Commercial vehicles and drivers in compliance with federal standards and safety regulations increase public safety because they are far less likely to be involved in collisions. In addition to inspecting commercial vehicles, these specially trained troopers also inspect school busses to ensure the safety of children. In FY2016, these troopers inspected 7,538 school busses statewide. Among their various responsibilities, troopers with AZDPS are charged with investigating and providing detailed reporting of collisions that occur on the state highways in Arizona. From minor fender benders to serious and fatal collisions involving multiple vehicles, troopers investigated an average of 96 collisions a day in FY2016. The statistics below paint a detailed picture of the amount and type of collisions investigated by troopers in FY2016 in comparison to the previous four fiscal years. Fiscal Year Total Collisions Injury Collisions Fatal Collisions Fatalities Alcohol Related Collisions Fatal Alcohol Related Collisions Fatalities from Alcohol Related Collisions Traffic Volume Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 FY2012 26,524 7,541 257 295 905 35 47 N/A FY2013 27,685 7,960 244 289 942 36 39 2% FY2014 28,001 8,315 204 243 944 39 48 4% FY2015 32,150 9,351 228 253 905 29 31 6% FY2016 35,106 9,742 255 306 1,075 38 45 2% 11 13,130 Total HPD Arrests FY2016 +17.8% from FY2015 272,282 Total Citations FY2016 +10.3% from FY2015 486,211 Traffic Stops FY2016 +2.6% from FY2015 Hazard Citations Restraint Citations 160000 30000 152500 22500 145000 15000 137500 7500 130000 2012 12 2013 2014 2015 2016 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 ENFORCING STATE LAWS CONT. Fatal Collisions Troopers with the Department investigated 255 fatal collisions in FY2016. These collisions resulted in 306 fatalities. In FY2015, troopers investigated 228 fatal collisions that resulted in 253 fatalities. The total number of collisions investigated by troopers has risen consistently from year-to-year in correlation with rising traffic volumes during those same periods. AZDPS developed and implemented a Regional Advanced Collision Team (ReACT) program in FY2016 to reduce collision investigation times and improve roadway closure times for these investigations. The program provides troopers with advanced collision investigation skills along with special scene measuring equipment and software to improve collision scene documentation. Since its inception, the program has expanded with 79 troopers in twelve of the Department’s Highway Patrol districts throughout the state actively involved in the program. Collisions 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 0 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 9000 18000 27000 36000 13 Collision Reduction Efforts AZDPS continues to work tirelessly to reduce the number of collisions that occur on state highways in Arizona through the development of innovative programs and initiatives in addition to the dedicated efforts of troopers on the highways. In the past year, HPD has spearheaded this effort with the following new tools: Highway Patrol Division Analytical Unit One initiative designed to reduce collisions resulted in the formation of the Highway Patrol Division Analytical Unit (HPDAU). This unit was formed during FY2016 to ensure that troopers are placed in the most effective locations to reduce collisions and improve public safety. The data-driven model compares the enforcement actions of troopers to the areas with the most collisions, ensuring enforcement actions have the greatest effect possible in lowering the number of collisions. The unit provides information to cover changes in traffic flow, special holiday details and special events. Traffic Operations Center 14 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 ENFORCING STATE LAWS CONT. AZDPS also continued its collision reduction efforts in the Traffic Operations Center (TOC) colocation project in FY2016. The project is a collaborative effort between the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), Federal Highway Administration, and AZDPS. The project aims to implement the most effective and efficient Traffic Incident Management (TIM) safety strategies which serve to quickly clear freeway and highway lanes at collision sites and reduce secondary collisions. By reducing the length of time incidents remain on the highway, the Traffic Operations Center is reducing that risk which helps prevent secondary collisions from occurring. The MAG estimates the Phoenix region has saved over 5.8 million hours of traffic delay and over $112 million dollars in lost productivity over the first year of the pilot project. The benefit-cost ratio is 250 to one. During the first nine months of the project, the average time to clear freeway lanes at crash sites was reduced by nearly one hour (54 minutes) or 63 percent. Enforcing State Laws AZDPS is responsible for interdiction and narcotics investigations. Units within the agency, such as Highway Patrol Districts and Canine Interdictors, collaborate to interdict criminals, conduct investigations and enforce state laws on highways. As in previous fiscal years, AZDPS troopers concentrated on criminal interdiction in FY2016. During the more than 450,000 traffic stops made by troopers during the fiscal year, more than 9,000 pounds of illegal drugs were seized and more than 13,000 arrests were made. The number of arrests by troopers increased 21.7 percent from FY2015 due in part to the relentless criminal interdiction efforts by troopers. Additionally, the Canine District at AZDPS is a criminal interdiction unit whose mission is to enforce state laws by targeting major criminal offenses on state highways. The District is part of the Border Strike Force Bureau under the Criminal Investigations Division and also works to combat border crimes while helping secure Arizona’s border and thwarting transnational criminal organizations. During FY2016, the Canine District, due to its tremendous success as a criminal interdiction entity, grew in size while expanding its scope of responsibilities. The district was authorized to fill existing vacancies and add five additional canine handler positions and canines to the District. This expansion took place thanks in part to rising demand for the types of services the Canine District provides in the quest to combat transnational criminal organizations. During FY2016, the expanded district was responsible for several noteworthy criminal interdiction seizures. During one case in particular, in February of 2016, a canine trooper conducted a traffic stop that resulted in the seizure of 16 pounds of fentanyl. The drugs were found hidden in the vehicle’s drive shaft. This was deemed the largest fentanyl seizure made in Arizona to date. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 15 In February of 2016, a Canine Trooper conducted a traffic stop that resulted in the seizure of 16 pounds of fentanyl. The drugs were found hidden in the vehicle’s drive shaft. This was deemed the largest fentanyl seizure, which is more potent than heroin, made in Arizona. Other significant cases initiated by the Canine District involved credit card fraud and identity theft, the sale of fake computers and iPads, and the seizure of more than 23,000 rounds of ammunition. What follows is a breakdown of the amount and types of items seized by the Canine District during FY2016 and the previous three fiscal years: +41.03% +18.14% In seizure of cocaine from FY2015 - FY2016 In seizure of methamphetamine from FY2015-FY2016 +34.92% In seizure of heroin from FY2015-FY2016 K9 DRUG & CURRENCY SEIZURES Seizure Type FY 2013 FY 2014 FY 2015 FY 2016 Marijuana (Lbs.) 13,439.96 20,454.46 11,417.43 6,162.92 Marijuana Plants 0 0 36 0 Heroin (Lbs.) 45 37.94 50.22 77.17 Cocaine (Lbs.) 135.96 284.58 74.32 126.04 Methamphetamine (Lbs.) 276.57 398.06 294.11 359.30 Hashish (Lbs.) 14.30 4.35 0.06 9.95 Fentanyl (Lbs.) 0.00 0.00 0.00 16.00 Pills (Qty) 21 0 2070 1010 Currency $ 3,035,767 $ 1,431,486 $ 2,298,384 $ 3,159,290 Fraudulent Credit Cards 80 116 140 4 Vehicles seized 163 132 106 87 Weapons seized 17 32 22 16 Ammo Seized 0 0 1750 23526 *Decimal Amounts have been rounded to nearest tenth 16 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 Crime Deterrence and Investigations An important part of the mission of AZDPS is to protect the public by deterring criminal activity. The agency works to deter criminal activity by using innovative investigative and specialized-enforcement strategies and resources. Intelligence-led policing is also used to enhance the effectiveness of the Department’s efforts to deter crime. ACTIC A major resource used by the Department to deter crime is the Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center (ACTIC). The center is a joint effort between AZDPS, the Arizona Department of Homeland Security (AZDOHS) and numerous other agencies to form a collective intelligence service that is dedicated to interdicting and preventing terrorism in the state. The center provides proactive intelligence along with investigative and technical support to law enforcement and other agencies critical to Arizona and the country’s homeland security effort. The ACTIC Watch Center is the focal point for citizens and public safety personnel to report suspicious activity through the Tips and Leads reporting system. During FY2016, the Watch Center processed more than 4,060 tips and leads throughout Arizona. As just one example, ACTIC was contacted in FY2016 regarding a credible threat of an “imminent” mass shooting at the Burton Barr Library in downtown Phoenix. In response to the threat information, ACTIC personnel obtained information connected to the suspect’s phone number, and identified the suspect through open source social media tools. ACTIC then provided real time actionable intelligence information to responding police units within minutes of receiving the threat. This intelligence armed incident commanders from AZDPS and Phoenix PD with real-time information to quickly formulate a plan to enter the building and ultimately arrest the suspect without incident. The incident highlights ACTIC’s mission and emphasizes the multi-agency collaboration and cooperation to deter crime and acts of terrorism in Arizona. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 17 ACTIC assisted in preventing a mass shooting. In FY2016, there was a credible threat of an “imminent” mass shooting at the Burton Barr Library in downtown Phoenix. Within minutes of receiving the threat, ACTIC provided intelligence which armed incident commanders from AZDPS and Phoenix PD with real-time information to enter the building and ultimately arrest the suspect without incident. IPC PROGRAM Another important crime deterrence program in place at AZDPS is the Interdiction for the Protection of Children (IPC) program. The program aims to identify and rescue missing, exploited or at-risk children (17 years old or younger) before they are victimized, or further victimized. The program also aims to identify potential suspects who may be a high risk to children while also educating the public on how to detect and report child exploitation and trafficking. Special IPC training is provided to troopers and other law enforcement personnel who then take the specialized skills and techniques they learn into the field where they can immediately apply them. The program also functions by fostering an environment of information sharing among agencies and providing resources to those who investigate crimes involving endangered children and human trafficking. In FY2016, the Department conducted three of four IPC classes in Arizona with 131 law enforcement officers from 18 different agencies. Numerous troopers were among those completing the training which proved worthwhile when they returned to the field. Thanks to the skills they learned in the IPC classes, troopers rescued a total of 30 children in FY2016. Clearinghouse for Missing and Exploited Children In addition to the IPC program, AZDPS is mandated by Executive Order 88-24 to act as the clearinghouse for missing and exploited children for the state of Arizona and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The purpose of the Clearinghouse is to provide information and resources to the public concerning children reported missing in the state. During FY2016, the Arizona Clearinghouse processed approximately 50 juvenile research requests. These were most commonly requested to identify possible location information of the missing juvenile, case history with other agencies, and information to identify and locate parents or guardians. In collaboration with Human Trafficking Task Force efforts in Arizona, the Clearinghouse assisted the Southern Arizona Anti-Trafficking and Urban Response Network (SAATURN) task force with the identification and case support of several sex trafficking operations and suspected sex traffickers in the Tucson area. 18 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 CRIME DETERRENCE AND INVESTIGATIONS CONT. AZDPS also works to deter criminal activity through innovative and comprehensive investigations. Special emphasis is placed on organized crime, narcotics trafficking, gangs, computer and financial crimes, vehicle theft, fugitive apprehension, and intelligence. Organized Crime In FY2016, detectives with AZDPS teamed up with U.S. Homeland Security Investigations agents to close a three-year human trafficking and prostitution investigation. The investigation culminated in the dismantlement of a Phoenix-based human trafficking and prostitution cell. An identified U.S. citizen and an identified female brothel manager were charged with prostitution and money laundering. The victims traveled to the U.S. from Thailand and were coerced into prostitution in order to pay a debt for travel expenses to the suspects. The women were advertised on open source sites and all illicit activity was coordinated by the prostitution cell leaders using IP-based telephone and Internet platforms. In April 2016, AZDPS served three residential search warrants on this Phoenix-based organization, where two of the locations were identified as functioning brothels. At the end of the investigation, four victims were rescued, and three suspects arrested. Narcotics AZDPS conducts complex investigations of groups and individuals, who use, manufacture, sell or distribute controlled substances, and prescription-only drugs. Not counting the more than 9,000 pounds of illegal drugs seized by AZDPS troopers on state highways in FY2016, the Department seized more than 28,900 pounds of illegal drugs through its complex narcotics investigations in FY2016. This represents a 19 percent increase from the amount of drugs seized by AZDPS investigative functions in FY2015. Shown below is a breakdown of the amounts and types of drugs seized by the Department’s investigative functions in FY2016 in comparison to the previous four fiscal years. With the exception of marijuana plants and currency, all of the amounts are listed in pounds seized. Drug/Currency Seizures through Complex Narcotics Investigations Drug Type Marijuana (Lbs.) FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014 15507.96 30605.96 34510 7142 15123 11966 Marijuana Plants FY 2015 23101.74 FY 2016 27514.43 464 714 Heroin (Lbs.) 26.96 89.66 139 101.9 171.29 Cocaine (Lbs.) 181.01 353.26 455 194.89 299.57 Methamphetamine (Lbs.) 329.62 N/A 394 772.24 999.18 Currency ($) 3,736,204.00 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 4,814,956.13 4,004,068.00 9,416,314.25 8,775,014.98 19 The numerous investigations and activities that led to these seizures also resulted in the apprehension and arrest of numerous suspects on drug-related charges. Shown below are statistics that detail the number and type of drug-related arrests made by the Department’s investigative functions in FY2016 in comparison to FY2015. Drug Related Arrests FY2016 FY2016 FY2016 590 43 771 Suspect Arrests Misdemeanor Charges Felony Charges 756 for FY2015 40 for FY2015 854 for FY2015 Complex investigations were responsible for a significant portion of the drug-related arrests and seizures made by AZDPS in FY2016. One of those investigations was a multi-month probe into a drug trafficking organization that was responsible for the cultivation, possession, and nationwide distribution of marijuana from an area in northern Arizona. The investigation culminated in the service of four search warrants in northern Arizona, including one in Flagstaff on an illegal marijuana cultivation operation. That search warrant yielded 360 marijuana plants, $100,000 worth of grow equipment and the arrest of one suspect. Further investigative efforts pursuant to that search warrant led investigators to identify a larger drug trafficking organization operating in another area of northern Arizona. Three search warrants were served in and around the Arizona towns of Happy Jack, Ash Fork, and Seligman. In total, an additional 180 marijuana plants, sophisticated marijuana growing equipment, real property, and weapons were seized during these search warrants. A total of seven suspects were ultimately indicted. The three illegal marijuana grow operations and the drug trafficking organization were dismantled as a result of the investigation. Marijuana sales and distribution associated with this drug trafficking organization had links in Arizona, California, and the East Coast. AZDPS seized more than 28,000 pounds of illegal drugs through its complex narcotics investigations in FY2016. This represents a 19 percent increase from the amount of drugs seized by AZDPS Criminal Investigations Division in FY2015. 20 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 CRIME DETERRENCE AND INVESTIGATIONS CONT. A single search warrant made in FY2016 resulted in the seizure of 34 firearms, 19 pounds of marijuana wax, $5,025 in cash, 130 additional pounds of marijuana, and much more. It is estimated that the street value of the marijuana wax alone is over $500,000. Another complex narcotics investigation in FY2016 began when troopers stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation which ultimately led to the discovery of five pounds of marijuana and over $3,000 in cash. Investigators with the Department turned that small seizure into something much bigger when further investigation revealed the driver of the vehicle had a functioning drug lab inside of his residence. After obtaining a search warrant, a team made up of AZDPS criminalists, detectives, and troopers served a search warrant on the driver’s residence in Payson. In addition, personnel from the Department’s Crime Scene Response (CSR) team, Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) team, and Explosives Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team were present to help dismantle a large hash oil lab. Notable items seized during the search warrant included 34 firearms, 19 pounds of marijuana wax, $5,025 in cash, 130 additional pounds of marijuana, one gram of cocaine, and two quarts of hash oil. Also seized was 18.5 gallons of a precursor chemical mixed and ready to make hash oil, 70 gallons of ethanol, 2.5 gallons of isopropyl alcohol, and extensive glassware and lab equipment. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality assisted with disposal of the chemicals. It is estimated the street value of the marijuana wax seized is over $500,000. A final example of a complex investigation conducted by the Department in FY2016 involved a drug trafficking organization based in Mexico. Investigators with the Department initiated a case closure in support of the six-month investigation. The drug trafficking organization at the center of the investigation was utilizing multiple cell phones and cell phone applications in an attempt to avoid detection from law enforcement. At the end of the investigation, search warrants were served on five residences, two vehicles and one storage locker. Among the items seized during the search warrants were $63,948 in U.S. currency, 552 pounds of marijuana, one gram of cocaine, two AR-15 rifles, four handguns, and 380 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, three residences, two sport utility vehicles, and a motorhome were seized and, five suspects were arrested on charges related to marijuana sales, money laundering, fraudulent schemes, forgery, and weapons violations. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 21 Gangs The Gang & Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission (GIITEM) is a statewide task force managed and led by AZDPS. One of its main objectives is to deter criminal gang activity through the enforcement of state laws. During FY2016, GIITEM was comprised of 30 different police agencies and was staffed by nearly 100 law enforcement officers across the state. GIITEM also manages the Detention Liaison Officer (DLO) Program. The DLO Program is an intelligence component and is comprised of detention officers from various sheriffs and corrections Departments. DLOs serve as intelligence resources for local, county and state law enforcement by reporting intelligence information regarding criminal street gangs, and security-threat groups. During FY2016, GIITEM personnel arrested 369 gang members statewide which represents more than an 85 percent increase from the number of gang members arrested by the task force in FY2015. During FY2016, GIITEM personnel also contacted 3,446 documented gang members across the state which represents a 17 percent increase from the number of gang members contacted by GIITEM in FY2015. During FY2016, members of GIITEM played a significant role in several gang-related investigations. One of those investigations involved gang-related homicides. The investigation, which spanned 18-months and involved the FBI, included numerous search warrants, interviews, and vital AZDPS investigative resources. GIITEM detectives spearheaded body recovery search efforts to locate and recover the buried human remains of two identified victims, which was critical to solving two homicide investigations. A third person’s remains were also recovered, however, that victim has not been identified. Testimony by GIITEM detectives at a Federal Grand Jury led the jury to bring back a true bill with 19 different counts for five suspects including homicide, rape, and aggravated assault. Computer and Financial Crimes The Computer Forensics Unit (CFU) is hosted by AZDPS and is comprised of multiple agencies that provide full-time computer forensic examiners. In today’s world, nearly every crime involves the use of electronic evidence such as computers, smart phones and GPS systems. CFU’s purpose is to provide a laboratory environment for the examination of that evidence. In FY2016, the CFU was comprised of investigators from AZDPS and nine other agencies, who collaborate as a state task force. 22 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 CRIME DETERRENCE AND INVESTIGATIONS CONT. In FY2016, the Computer Forensics Unit was comprised of investigators from AZDPS and nine other agencies. The unit processed a total of 702 cases during the fiscal year. All of the cases involved electronic evidence such as the computers, smart phones, hard drives and GPS systems. AZDPS investigators assigned to the CFU processed 181 cases in FY2016. All of the agencies assigned to the CFU, including AZDPS, processed a total of 702 cases in FY2016. The type and corresponding number of some of the cases processed are show below: ACTIC Computer Forensic Lab Activity For FY2016 By Case Type 128 Homicide Sexual Misconduct with a minor (Luring) 27 144 35 16 90 54 13 Sexual Assault Narcotics Sexual Exploitation of a Minor Fraud Assault (All) Burglary One particular case that took place in FY2016 serves as a prime example of how the CFU is able to provide invaluable assistance to detectives in need of digital evidence to further their investigations. The case involved a seven-year-old child who was sexually assaulted by a known adult family associate. Following the assault, the suspect’s cellular phone device was submitted to the CFU for examination. Retrieving evidence from the device proved difficult for examiners due to the type of device, the phone carrier and password protection. However, CFU examiners were able to use specialized equipment to successfully access and retrieve the needed evidence on the phone. The visual evidence is believed to have been captured at the time of the alleged assault, and it was ultimately used to support the allegations of sexual assault of the minor by the suspect. Vehicle Theft AZDPS aggressively combats and deters vehicle theft through its hosting of the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force (VTTF). The task force is comprised of local, county, state and federal law enforcement detectives whose primary mission is the identification, apprehension and prosecution of individuals and criminal organizations that profit from the theft of motor vehicles and related crimes associated with motor-vehicle theft. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 23 During FY2016, the task force included the following AZDPS personnel: one captain, five professional support staff, and four sergeants (three in Phoenix and one in southern Arizona). Ten detectives from the Department were also assigned to the task force along with four AZDPS border liaison troopers who assist with auto theft investigations in the border region, repatriation projects and training Mexican law enforcement. The rest of those staffing the task force are detectives and/or agents from other agencies. In FY2016, the task force recovered 1,238 stolen vehicles worth more than $13 million (a four year high for both). The task force also completed 57 business inspections and investigated 24 alleged chop shop operations. Also in FY2016, the task force arrested or charged 252 suspects (a five year high), made 969 agency assists, and provided 24 auto theft training sessions to law enforcement agencies (a five year high). Training included teaching advanced auto theft investigations to seasoned law enforcement personnel and county attorneys, including case reporting and management, as well as teaching hundreds of local and federal Mexican law enforcement personnel basic stolen vehicle identification techniques in Mexico. Fugitive Apprehension AZDPS is an active participant in the WANTED Task Force. The WANTED Task Force focuses on arresting subjects with warrants attached to specific crimes, such as: violent crimes against persons, weapons offenses, felony drug arrests, failure to register as a sex offender, and crimes committed by subjects who have a criminal history involving violent crimes, felony drug offenses, and weapons offenses. The task force consists of personnel from AZDPS and multiple other law enforcement agencies to include those on the federal, state and local levels. During FY2016, the AZDPS personnel assigned to the task force located and arrested 196 fugitives. Career Criminals In 2015, AZDPS created a special unit named the Career Criminal Unit, designed to target and investigate subjects who have demonstrated violent tendencies and blatant disregard for the law as a group or as individuals. The subjects investigated by the unit are habitual offenders who continuously believe they do not have to follow the laws of the state and federal government. During FY2016, the Career Criminal Unit completed 51 investigations and arrested 72 people. The unit also seized over 100 firearms. A large percentage of those arrested committed crimes with others in an organized fashion. In FY2016, the VTTF recovered 1,238 vehicles. The vehicles recovered were worth more than $13 million. Also in FY2016, the task force arrested or charged 252 suspects (a five year high), made 969 agency assists, and provided 24 auto theft training sessions to law enforcement agencies (a five year high). 24 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 Vital Support An important part of the mission of AZDPS is to provide vital support to the state of Arizona and its citizens. The agency works to provide this support by offering a wide variety of customer-oriented, state-level law enforcement services. Many of the services offered by the Department, such as Concealed Weapons Permits and Department Records, are offered in accordance with state statutes and directly benefit the citizens of Arizona. Other services offered by the Department prove beneficial not only to the citizens of Arizona, but to other governmental agencies and the Department itself. These services include those offered by units such as Aviation, SWAT, the Bomb Squad and HAZMAT which are essential assets in providing statewide emergency response in support of public safety and law enforcement safety. Public Support Thanks to the completion of the newly renovated Public Services Center building in FY2016, the Department significantly improved the way it delivers many of its statutorily required, customeroriented law enforcement services to the public. The primary objective in renovating the 90,000 square-foot building was for it to become a convenient “one stop shopping” location for those in need of Department services pertaining to the following: Concealed Weapons, Criminal History Records, Department and Public Records, Security Guard/Private Investigator Licensing, 30-Day Impound, and the Fingerprint Unit. Department and Public Records - Public Two separate units at the Department handle records management - the Department Records Unit and the Public Records Unit. Both units are located in the Public Services Center building and handle requests from the public and other entities. The Department Records Unit serves as the repository for traffic collision reports completed by troopers with the agency. During FY2016, the unit responded to 31,694 requests for collision reports. This number represents a 30 percent increase from FY2015. The Public Records Unit processes requests from citizens, media outlets, insurance companies and criminal justice agencies for Department records. The unit responded to 8,185 public record requests during FY2016. This represents more than a 19 percent increase from FY2015. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 25 During the latter part of FY2016, the submission of Fingerprint Clearance Card applications electronically through the Electronic Fingerprint Application System (EFAS) went live. EFAS has dramatically reduced the time necessary to process and issue cards. For applicants with no criminal history, their application is completed and mailed within days. Applicant Processing and Applicant Clearance Card Team (ACCT) The Applicant Processing Team at the Department provides service by conducting criminal fingerprint-based background checks for criminal justice and non-criminal justice agencies as authorized by law. The ACCT also provides service by producing the Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card required by statute to be obtained primarily by those individuals who have unsupervised contact with children or other potentially vulnerable populations. In FY2016, the ACCT, processed and issued 120,968 new fingerprint clearance cards which represents more than a 20 percent increase from FY2015. Also new in FY2016, the ACCT implemented the Electronic Fingerprint Application System (EFAS). The system allows citizens to submit their fingerprints electronically. EFAS has dramatically reduced the time necessary to process and issue cards. For applicants with no criminal history, their application is completed and mailed within days. Security Guard and Private Investigator Licensing Through its Licensing Unit, the Department provides service by issuing private investigator and security guard registration certificates and identification cards to qualifying individuals and agencies. The Licensing Unit investigates complaints of misconduct of certificate holders. During FY2016, the unit processed 13,476 active security guard certificates. Concealed Weapons The Concealed Weapon Permit Unit serves citizens by managing all aspects of issuance and governance of Concealed Weapon Permits for qualifying parties, and coordinates with other states on matters of permit reciprocity. In FY2016, 50,092 applications for Concealed Weapon Permits were received, 42,241 were issued, and 526 permits were denied. The remaining permit applications were returned to their senders because they were either administratively incomplete, or not completed in the proper fashion. 26 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 VITAL SUPPORT CONT. Governmental Support For the Department to operate efficiently and successfully on a day-to-day basis, it relies heavily upon a diverse group of governmental support functions. These support functions, which range from Aviation services to Human Resources services, focus on activities essential to Department operations, and strive to provide top-notch customer service in support of the agency’s mission. Aviation The Aviation Unit at the Department provides a statewide air rescue response capability and regional air transport service that greatly benefits the public, the Department and other public safety agencies. The unit is comprised of four air rescue helicopter bases, a fixed-wing air support unit, maintenance unit and administrative staff. To accomplish its mission, Aviation operates and maintains a fleet of five rotary-wing and nine fixed-wing aircraft. The unit’s fixed-wing aircraft are used to transport public safety personnel and equipment across the state and region, greatly enhancing public safety during critical occurrences. From four regionally-based locations, the air rescue helicopters provide law enforcement aerial surveillance utilizing the latest technologies. External agency requests for the Department’s aerial search and rescue services increased by more than 9% in FY2016 and continues to be the number one requested service for the Department’s helicopters. In FY2015, by order of the Governor, aviation services between AZDPS and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) began a consolidation process. In FY2016, the consolidation of fixed-wing aviation services between AZDPS and ADOT was completed. Whereas the two agencies previously had overlapping services, today one flight Department exists under the AZDPS umbrella instead of two. Safety management, operational streamlining and support systems have been integrated due to the consolidation. The statistics below paint a detailed picture of the amount and type of missions conducted by Aviation in FY2016 in comparison to FY2015. Mission Type External load Fire Law Enforcement DPS Law Enforcement Non-DPS Law Enforcement Pursuit Logistics Medical Patrol Photo LE Photo Non-LE Search and Rescue Technical Rescue Land Technical Rescue Water Vital Materials WSB mission TOTAL Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 FY2015 6 16 286 129 38 164 124 60 23 5 362 55 20 2 15 1305 FY2016 18 24 252 240 35 163 154 138 23 1 399 56 5 1 6 1497 27 Forensic Science is not like crime drama shows. Unlike the forensic scientists portrayed in television crime dramas such as “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” real forensic science takes time - forensic tests that take minutes to complete on television, may take weeks to process in real life. Scientific Analysis The Scientific Analysis Bureau at the Department provides a wide variety of critical services to all criminal justice agencies in the state. The scientific and technical services offered by the bureau are provided through the Department’s crime laboratories in the areas of DNA, serology, toxicology, controlled substances (drugs), firearms and tool marks, trace evidence (explosives, arson, hairs, fibers, paint, glass, etc.), latent fingerprints, questioned documents, breath alcohol, and photography. During FY2016, the bureau continued to reduce its overall backlog of cases, resulting in improved turnaround times for most analysis types. During the fiscal year, the turnaround times for blood alcohol cases were routinely within thirty days. Initial screening of sex assault cases having male DNA had a turnaround time of 15 days. The following is a breakdown of the amount and type of crime lab cases completed per month in FY2016 along with the number of backlogged cases as of the end of FY2016 in comparison to the number of backlogged cases at the end of FY2015. Case Load Laboratory Section FY2016 Backlog FY2015 Backlog Cases Completed per Month Alcohol 114 26 594 Drug Toxicology 835 1,062 574 Controlled Substances 720 657 1,150 1,929 2,864 374 79 127 22 156 839 273 DNA Firearms Latent Prints 28 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 VITAL SUPPORT CONT. In an effort to further shorten the amount of time it takes for agencies to receive their Scientific Examination Reports, the bureau implemented during FY2016 a secure system that allows the reports to be emailed to agencies. The emailing of the reports eliminates any delays caused by sending reports via mail. Also during FY2016, the bureau provided subject matter expertise for the Arizona Sexual Assault Evidence Collection Kit Task Force. This task force was convened by the Governor Doug Ducey to evaluate the process of collection, submission, and analysis of sex assault kits in Arizona. SWAT Another Department unit that provides critical services to the agency, the public and other law enforcement organizations statewide is Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT). In FY2016, SWAT responded to 170 calls for service which represents more than a 66 percent increase from FY2015. SWAT also conducted 40 agency assists during the fiscal year. One of those agency assists took place in Holbrook, Arizona after fugitive homicide suspects from Texas fled to the small community. After a multi-hour barricade in a hotel room, and unsuccessful attempts to negotiate with the suspects, SWAT tactical resources were deployed. This resulted in the safe and timely apprehension of the armed suspects. Explosive Ordnance Disposal The Department’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit, or bomb squad, is another serviceoriented unit that is vital to the Department, the public, and other law enforcement agencies. In FY2016, the unit responded to 380 calls for service and completed 80 agency assists. One of those agency assists occurred when the unit responded to a request from the Prescott Valley Police Department regarding a possible bomb at a local home improvement store. An unidentified male had requested to meet with the manager of the store in private, and when he entered the manager’s office, he placed a suitcase in the office and informed the manager it contained a bomb. The Department’s EOD personnel responded to the scene where they utilized their advanced equipment and expertise to render the potential explosive device safe through a multi-hour, intensive process. Although the device turned out to be a hoax, the threat it presented had to be taken seriously. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 29 Hazardous Materials Unit The Hazardous Materials Unit (HAZMAT) at the Department is a statewide emergency response team that focuses on providing vital services to Department units and other agencies. The unit’s primary mission is to respond to accidental or criminal releases of hazardous materials and mitigate the dangerous effects of such releases to ensure public safety. During FY2016, the unit responded to 197 hazardous materials incidents statewide which represents more than a 30 percent increase from FY2015. Law Enforcement Support AZDPS provides valuable investigative services to criminal justice and governmental agencies, while also serving units within the Department. Investigative support includes investigation of alleged criminal misconduct by Department employees, and requests for investigation into public officials, and employees of other governmental entities, including officer involved shooting incidents. During FY2016, the AZDPS conducted 216 major criminal investigations and administrative investigations. In FY2016, The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit responded to 380 calls for service and completed 80 agency assists. The members of the unit rely on robots, counter charges, bomb containers and a national 24hour technical support network. 30 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 VITAL SUPPORT CONT. Human Resources One in-house support function that is crucial to Department operations is Human Resources. In FY2016, Human Resources processed 159 new hires, 77 retirements, and 240 promotions/ reassignments. HR continues to improve its Employee Assistance Program. Incidents resulting in death and/or serious injury are inherent to law enforcement work, and it is imperative that immediate support is offered to those involved. The Peer Support/Critical Incident Stress Management Team, consisting of specially trained employees providing service in addition to normal duties, offer a wide variety of support, including counseling, to other employees who are involved in traumatic incidents. The Team doubled in size to 50 members during FY2016. With more employees now serving, there is easier access to supportive team members when needed. Also during FY2016, 15 Employee Assistance Program presentations were conducted statewide to Department workgroups. The presentations provide information to employees about the valuable resources that are available through the program. Operational Communications The Operational Communications (OpComm) Bureau is an in-house support function at the Department that is absolutely critical to the agency’s statewide law enforcement operations. Operating 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year, OpComm runs communication centers in Flagstaff, Phoenix, and Tucson that provide around-the-clock dispatch services for the Department and other law enforcement agency personnel. During FY2016, more than 518,000 phone calls were answered by OpComm personnel which includes more than 200,000 in-bound 911 calls. In addition, OpComm personnel dispatched more than 745,540 calls for service to troopers and other law enforcement agency personnel during the fiscal year. This represents more than an eight percent increase from the number of calls for service dispatched in FY2015. Also during FY2016, the installation of advanced Zetron radio consoles was completed in each OpComm Center. By having these identical, state-of-the-art interoperable radio systems in each center, a variety of dispatching improvements were realized. For example, OpComm could focus on a more teamed dispatching approach as opposed to three separate centers operating in isolation. Also, in cases when there was an equipment failure in an OpComm Center, the radio consoles allowed the unaffected OpComm Centers to seamlessly take over for the center experiencing difficulties. This ensured troopers and others who rely on OpComm were never without critical dispatching services. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 31 Fleet Services completed maintenance on more than 2,300 vehicles, including the procurement and “build-up” of 165 law enforcement vehicles for Department use during FY2016. Fleet Services Fleet Services is a valuable in-house support function at the Department that is responsible for procuring and maintaining the Department’s fleet. During FY2016, Fleet procured and completed the “build-up” of 165 law enforcement vehicles for Department use. Fleet also oversaw or completed maintenance on more than 2,300 vehicles and pieces of equipment during the fiscal year. In addition, Fleet decommissioned/salvaged 140 vehicles that had met the end of their useful life at the Department due to highmileage and/or other factors. Also during FY2016, as part of the Department’s rebranding initiative, Fleet Services adopted new graphics for Department vehicles and began marking those vehicles as part of the “build-up” process. Facilities The Facilities Section at the Department is an in-house support function that is responsible for the maintenance and improvement of all Department owned and leased facilities throughout the state. During FY2016, Facilities welcomed the implementation of the Arizona Department of Administration’s “TRIRIGA Work Order System”. This system allows the Department to efficiently perform demand and preventive maintenance on its facilities, as well as make long-term plans regarding maintenance and budget issues. 32 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 VITAL SUPPORT CONT. Wireless Systems The Wireless Systems Bureau is an essential in-house support function at the Department that is responsible for the design, coordination, construction and maintenance services for statewide radio, voice and data telecommunication systems. A common misunderstanding about the bureau is that it only supports Department radio systems and equipment. However, the critical microwave backbone that makes the bureau’s communications work possible is a state-wide asset, supporting communications back-haul to federal, tribal, state and local government agencies. During FY2016, in a joint effort with the Gila County Sheriff’s Office, the bureau completed a digital microwave backhaul project to provide interconnectivity between Gila County’s two dispatch centers in Globe to Payson. The project also extended the Department’s digital connectivity from Thompson Peak through Mt. Ord to Payson. Information Technology The Information Technology Bureau is an important in-house support function at the Department that designs, develops, maintains and operates automated computer systems to support the enforcement, investigative and administrative functions of the agency. These programs include the statewide Arizona Criminal Justice Information System (ACJIS) on-line network utilized by all criminal justice agencies in Arizona. During FY2016, members of the Information Technology Bureau made several improvements that benefitted not only the Department, but all law enforcement agencies statewide. One of those improvements provided more than 160 criminal justice agencies with a much faster, more efficient method to obtain electronic criminal history record information (CHRI) and criminal justice information (CJI). This improvement was made when Information Technology Bureau personnel converted 164 external “direct connect” criminal justice agencies and 44 internal Department units with access to the ACJIS system to a new browser-based ACJIS system, Justice Web Interface (JWI). It was a complex technical migration affecting numerous customers, but the necessary conversion took place seamlessly thanks to the hard work and expertise of Department personnel. The new JWI system is far easier for users to learn and utilize and has searching capabilities previously unavailable. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 33 Operational Training Section The Operational Training Section is a vital in-house support function at the Department that develops and coordinates advanced and re-certification training programs for troopers and the agency’s professional staff. In FY2016, the section continued its efforts to provide active shooter response training to all agency employees. Troopers with the agency were provided with a two-day active shooter response training course during the fiscal year and professional staff employees were provided with a two-hour active shooter survival training course. In addition, training staff provided this important training to other state agencies upon request. Also during FY2016, the Operational Training Section, through its Firearms Training Unit, continued to transition the Department’s troopers to the state-of-the-art FNS40LS handgun as the standard issue weapon for the Department. The transition program demonstrates the Department’s commitment to providing troopers with the very best equipment to enhance the performance of their duties. The Operational Training Section also addressed an emerging threat to law enforcement personnel during the fiscal year caused by a drug called Fentanyl. The opiate-based drug is many more times potent than heroin and presents a lethal danger to drug users and law enforcement officers who come into contact with it. With the drug becoming more prevalent on the streets, the Department created a Fentanyl E-Learning project to make agency personnel more aware of the drug. Additionally, the Department is in the process of purchasing Naloxone, sometimes referred to as Narcan, as an immediate antidote for overdose victims and accidental exposures. Select troopers with the agency are being scheduled for the training and the Narcan kits are being made available to specific agency work units. Training programs provided to Department employees are not always offered exclusively by the agency’s Operational Training Section. Sometimes individual units at the Department have tremendous expertise in a certain field and formally offer training to others within the agency in order to share that expertise. This practice allows specialized units within the Department to learn from one another, and share useful knowledge agency-wide. One example of this involved the Department’s Canine District in FY2016. During the fiscal year, the district created a comprehensive, 32-hour training course on advanced criminal interdiction. The course was created so that the expertise gained by the district over the years could be shared with other troopers within the agency as well as law enforcement personnel from other agencies. 34 Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 VITAL SUPPORT CONT. The course, which is called Advanced Criminal Interdiction Training (ACIT), included instruction on criminal interdiction techniques, drug smuggling trends and instruction on how to properly search vehicles. The course was structured in a manner that allowed troopers and other law enforcement agency personnel to enhance their efforts in professionally combatting transnational criminal organizations that use Arizona highways as a transportation hub for illegal narcotics. During the fiscal year, 70 troopers with the Department completed the course along with 13 officers from other agencies. Training of New Troopers Overseen by AZDPS, the Phoenix Police Department, and the Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST) Board, the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy (ALEA) is Arizona’s largest police recruit training facility. Over 20 law enforcement agencies, including AZDPS, utilize ALEA to train their police recruits. During FY2016, the Department had six permanently assigned and two temporarily assigned troopers at ALEA. These troopers joined personnel from other law enforcement agencies at the facility in a multi-agency effort to train hundreds of new police recruits from the various user agencies. In addition, ALEA increased the realism of its police recruit training scenarios thanks to a new system called “Stress Vest”. The system was purchased and utilized during certain aspects of police recruit training at ALEA. The system allows for actors in scenarios to utilize firearms that fire blank ammunition as well as emitting a laser pulse. If the laser pulse strikes a laser sensitive vest that a recruit is wearing, it delivers a sometimes painful electrical stimulus to simulate the recruit being shot. This system allows for increased stress to be placed on recruits during these scenarios which ultimately makes their training more effective. After graduating from ALEA, the Department’s newest troopers continue their training in the State Trooper Academy located at the Department headquarters building in Phoenix. During this eightweek program, the ALEA graduates are joined by any lateral officers the Department has hired from other law enforcement agencies. A total of 97 troopers graduated from the State Trooper Academy in FY2016. Arizona Department of Public Safety 2016 35 602-223-2000 | azdps.gov 2102 West Encanto Blvd. | PO Box 6638 Phoenix, AZ 85009-6638 Created and Designed by Creative Services CS500 - V.5