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A Tribute to Sheriff Clarence Dupnik

Your 50 years of service are truly remarkable. Your career achievements are too intricate to summarize. Your eight

consecutive terms as Sheriff of Pima County speaks volumes about your entrusted leadership to your constituency; and your

enhanced and continued focus on public safety has defined your legacy...

Your experience, sacrifice and dedication have made you a professional institution in the law enforcement community.

Thank you, Sheriff Dupnik, for 50 years of public service to the citizens of Pima County and the city of Tucson.

Congratulations!

Welcome to the Pima County Sheriff Department’s Annual Awards Ceremony for 2008. I once again have the honor of publicly recognizing the men and women of this Department, and the citizens of our community, who have risen to a level of unrivaled service. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department holds a reputation for professionalism that is unmatched in Southern Arizona. This reputation is the result of the dedication and commitment of all the members of our organization. You will see that all of the employees being honored here tonight have performed their jobs in an exceptional manner, and have risen above the high standard that is set every day by the men and women of this Department. Once a year, we gather together to pay tribute to people who have taken action above and beyond what is expected of them in their everyday lives. Whether employees of this Department or not, we are all citizens of Pima County and hold an abiding interest in the safety and security of our community. You will see that the actions taken, that are being honored tonight, were the result of a personal decision to sacrifice something in pursuit of the common good. Whether the achievement was in taking life saving measures, exceptional risks, or was the result of extraordinary teamwork to accomplish a difficult task, the result was the same. These employees knew what was expected of them, yet they went further, dedicating themselves to achieving more than a job well done. They are being honored here tonight because they are representative of the kind of service and selflessness that allows the citizens of Pima County to safely live and work in this community. We will recognize citizens who, with no obligation to act, and often with disregard for their own safety, took action to help others and further the cause of public safety and saw a need, and demonstrated selfless servitude in responding to that call and represent the very best that this community has to offer. I am very proud of all the employees that make up the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. They give of themselves on a daily basis, representing this Department and Pima County in an honorable and professional manner. It is on behalf of them that I welcome you here tonight.

Clarence W. Dupnik, Sheriff of Pima County

Greetings from Clarence W. DupnikSheriff Since 1980

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Table of Contents

Greetings from the Sheriff ........................................ 1

Schedule of Events .................................................... 3

Awards (list of medals) ............................................ 4

Award Recipients ...................................................... 5

Medal of Valor .......................................................... 10

Purple Heart ............................................................ 13

Public Safety Achievement Medal ......................... 17

Public Service Achievement Medal ...................... 20

Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal ......................................... 28

Shannon Russell Award .......................................... 32

Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate ...................... 34

Sheriff’s Unit Commendation Certificate ............................................................. 61

Special Recognition .................................................. 71

In Memory Of ........................................................... 76

Special Thanks .......................................................... 78

Awards Committee .................................................. 79

Tribute to Sheriff Dupnik ....................................... 80

2008 Awards Ceremony Committee Members

Captain Shawn T. CooperCaptain Christopher G. Nanos Captain Christopher M. RadtkeCorrections Captain India Davis

Lieutenant Gary AndersonLieutenant Deanna J. CoultasLieutenant Scott W. MartinLieutenant David PeruLieutenant Lisa R. SaccoLieutenant Karl WoolridgeCorrections Lt. Brooke Moore

Bureau Chief Bradley J. Gagnepain

Sergeant Joe DeCormisSergeant Cathryn E. Masters Sergeant Alex MontoyaSergeant James G. OgdenSergeant Christopher A. RogersCorrections Sergeant John Rooney

Deputy Nicole FeldtDeputy Christy LawsonDetective Curtis StricklandCorrections Officer David KrzysikCorrections Officer Anthony Lucas

Ms. Kathryn D. CallanMr. Todd M. Lepird

Ms. Catherine LesinskiMs. Dana Y. Muñoz

Ms. Patty Reyes-HendricksMs. Annette Romero

Ms. Linda S. WoodruffMr. Rudy Castro, Community Representative

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Special Thanks

Mr. Jim Callery

Caesar’s Palace – Las Vegas

Doubletree Hotel

Mr. David “Fitz” Fitzsimmons

La Paloma Resort

Mr. Derric Martinez

Ms. Alisha Peru

University of Arizona Athletics

Ventana Canyon Resort

Westward Look Resort

Supporters of the 23rd Annual Awards Ceremony

Schedule of EventsSocial Hour and Registration

5:30 p.m. No host bar

Posting of the ColorsPima County Sheriff’s Department Color Guard

“National Anthem” Ms. Alisha Peru

(Daughter of Lt. David Peru)

InvocationFather John Allt, St. Rita in the Desert Parish

Dinner6:30 P.M.

EntertainmentMr. David “Fitz” Fitzsimmons, Arizona Daily Star

Mr. Jim Callery, GuitaristMr. Darric Martinez, Magician

RemarksSheriff Clarence W. Dupnik

Presentation of AwardsBureau Chief Richard J. Kastigar

Captain Shawn Cooper

BenedictionFather John Allt, St. Rita in the Desert Parish

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AwardsThe Pima County Sheriff’s Department Awards Ceremony provides for the presentation

of certificates and decorations to members of the Department and citizens of the community and to recognize acts of heroism, the performance of outstanding service,

or injuries sustained in the line of duty. Individuals may be selected to receive any of the awards listed below in order of precedence:

Medal of Honor

Medal of Valor

Medal of Merit

Purple Heart

Public Safety Achievement Medal

Public Service Achievement Medal

Sheriff ’s Citizen’s Medal

Shannon Russell Outstanding Corrections Officer of the Year Award

Sheriff ’s Commendation Certificate

Sheriff ’s Unit Commendation Certificate

Special Recognition

In Memory ofSheriff ’s Auxiliary Volunteers

Joe Cataldo – Tucson 23 Years of Service

Roy Jones – Tucson 26 Years of Service

Bob Riney – Tucson 9 Years of Service

George Tessier III – Tucson 6 Years of Service

Angelo DiGiovanni – Green Valley 16 Years of Service

Daniel Sullivan – Green Valley 6 Years of Service

Gertrude (Trudi) Dubs – Green Valley 3 Years of Service

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In Memory of

Gary Lee Luker Corrections Officer

Richard C. McKinley Former Sheriff ’s Deputy

Anders, Det. Scott - Pg. 21Anderson, Mr. Arthur - Pg. 35AVID - Pg. 73Ballou, Mr. Ron - Pg. 29Boivin, Mr. Micah - Pg. 29 Boudreau, Det. Melody - Pg. 37 Bowe, Dep. Tiberius - Pg. 37 Boyce, Ms. Jenifer - Pg. 40Butler, C.O. Matthew - Pg. 41Carey, Ms. Talia - Pg. 22 Cervantez, Dep. Eric - Pg. 8, 11, 14 Circle K Corp. - Pg. 42Communications Day Shift - Pg. 62Couture, Det. Karen - Pg. 43 Dabb, Dep. Kurt - Pg. 18Derrick, C.O. Brent - Pg. 33Deschenes, Det. Therese - Pg. 21DDS Unit - Pg. 64 Dixon, Dep. Matthew - Pg. 44 Dunaway, Dep. Scott - Pg. 9, 45 Easton, Dep. Lawrence - Pg. 8, 11Eells, Mr. Wayne - Pg. 45Fimbres, Mr. Gilbert - Pg. 29 Garcia, Dep. Jeffrey - Pg. 37 Giffords, Congresswoman - Pg. 74 Gil, Dep. Laura – Pg. 37Gonzales, Mr. Frank - Pg. 46Gonzales, Mr. Frederick - Pg. 46Gonzalez, Dep. Augustine - Pg. 37Graff, Mr. Ken - Pg. 48G. V. Golf Unit - Pg. 70Greene, Dep. Kori - Pg. 49 Haufe, Dep. Bruce - Pg. 12, 14Hedrick, Det. Kenneth - Pg. 23 Henson, Mr. Dennis - Pg. 50

Herndon, Mr. Michael – Pg. 50Humane Society - Pg. 72 Iverson, Dep. James - Pg. 18Jacobs, Dep. Gabriel - Pg. 37 Janes, Sgt. Harold - Pg. 51,66,68 Jimenez, Dep. Francisco - Pg. 15Joiner, Dep. Brett – Pg. 37Kane, Mr. Thomas - Pg. 50 Kripner, Mr. Christopher - Pg. 27Kripner, Mr. Michael - Pg. 27Law, Dep. James - Pg. 16, 19Lopez, Dep. Pedro - Pg. 52Lyle, Dep. Elliott – Pg. 37

Madewell, Mr. Paul - Pg. 29McFarland, Mr. Doug - Pg. 29McGrath, Dep. Clifford - Pg. 37 Melendez, Mr. Benjamin - Pg. 29Molchan, Dep. Donald - Pg. 53Monreal, Mr. Steven - Pg. 53Morrison, Ms. - Pg. 75Murphy, Sgt. Joseph - Pg. 37Murphy, Sgt. William - Pg. 24Neuss, Dep. David - Pg. 37

O’Connor, Dep. Ryan - Pg. 37Odell, Dep. Michael - Pg. 19Ogden, Dep. Derek - Pg. 16, 58PCADC Angel Tree - Pg. 54PCSD Honor Guard Unit – Pg. 66Personnel Unit - Pg. 68P. C. Animal Care - Pg. 72Portrey, Mr. Tony - Pg. 25Price, Dep. Thomas - Pg. 26Reyes-Hendricks, Ms. Patty - Pg. 55Roberts, Mr. Joshua - Pg. 41 Rockwell, Dep. Jason - Pg. 56Rojas, Mr. Raul - Pg. 29Ruff-Duval, Ms. Martha - Pg. 27, 31Rupp, Dep. Jonathon - Pg. 57Salmon, Dep. Matthew - Pg. 12, 14Sandoval, Mr. Felipe - Pg. 29Santa Maria, Dep. Francisco - Pg. 37Schwartz, Dep. Tory - Pg. 8, 11, 14Seeley, C.O. Byron - Pg. 58Shafer, Det. Scott - Pg. 37Shinn, Mr. Jerry - Pg. 9, 31Sidoni, C.O. Nicholas - Pg. 59Smith, Dep. David – Pg. 9, 60Soza, Mr. Mark - Pg. 29Sperry, Ms. Madeline - Pg. 50Summerfield, Dep. Larry - Pg. 44Sykora, Ms. Eileen - Pg. 29Tobin, Mr. Ron - Pg. 29Velasco, Dep. Jose - Pg. 9, 11Walsh, Dep. Michael - Pg. 37Welch, Mr. Adam - Pg. 29Welsh, Ms. Paula - Pg. 18, 31Whitbeck, Det. Jeffrey - Pg. 37Wyche, C.O. Lawrence - Pg. 60

2008 Award Recipients

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On June 1, 2008, a gunman terrorized Pima County in a shooting rampage that crossed the Tucson area, endangering countless lives as he fired several hundred shots at houses, vehicles, and responding law enforcement officers. During the course of this rampage, two Pima County Sheriff’s Deputies were wounded and a Tucson Police Officer was killed. Ultimately, the fortitude, intrepidity, and courage of the responding law enforcement officers resulted in the timely capture of this murderer. Shortly before 10:00 am, Foothills Deputies responded to a report of numerous shots fired at a residence by a suspect who fled in a red convertible. Deputy Eric Cervantes was on duty when he heard the broadcasted call. He obtained a description of the suspect’s car and located it at the intersection of Oracle and Ina. The driver brandished an assault rifle toward Deputy Cervantez who then attempted to detain him. As Deputy Cervantez stepped from his patrol car, the suspect unleashed a barrage of gunfire striking Deputy Cervantez in the shoulder and hitting the patrol car numerous times. Deputy Cervantez attempted to return fire. Although wounded by rifle fire, Deputy Cervantez had the presence of mind to recognize a number of citizens within his line of fire. Therefore, he held his fire as the suspect fled southbound on Oracle Road. Deputy Cervantez, wounded and bleeding, initiated a pursuit of the heavily armed suspect stopping only when his patrol car succumbed to the damage sustained in the initial confrontation. Mr. Jerry Shinn was traveling in his private vehicle near Oracle and Ina when he witnessed Deputy Cervantez being shot. He saw Deputy Cervantez pursue the suspect but noted the suspect eluded the deputy by making a U-turn. Mr. Shinn called 9-1-1 from his cell phone and alerted the Communications Center of the suspect’s location and direction of travel. Mr. Shinn followed the suspect for over ten miles while keeping

responding deputies updated. Even after losing visual contact with the car, he was able to find the suspect who was traveling in a different direction on a different road. Mr. Shinn was able to stay with the suspect vehicle until another deputy was able to take position and pursue the convertible. Deputy Sheriffs responding to Deputy Cervantez’ call for assistance next located the suspect vehicle in the Rincon District near Sabino Canyon and River Roads. Deputy Jose Velasco attempted to take a position of cover to engage the suspect but was met by another volley of rifle fire that struck his patrol car. Before Deputy Velasco could return fire, the suspect fled with Velasco in pursuit. Deputy Lawrence Easton arrived to assist Deputy Velasco as the pursuit continued south to Tanque Verde Road and turned east where Tucson Police Officers joined the deputies. Three times during this pursuit, the suspect stopped his vehicle, positioned himself over the front seat of his car, and fired shots at the pursuing Deputies and Police Officers. The suspect continued on Tanque Verde Road to Tomahawk where he turned north. As Deputy Easton and Tucson Police Officer Eric Hite followed, they turned into the suspect’s line of fire as he ambushed the officers. Officer Eric Hite was mortally wounded by the barrage and the suspect escaped into the neighborhood only to be located by Deputy Tory Schwartz on Catalina Highway. When Deputy Schwartz saw the suspect vehicle, he made a U-turn and tried to pursue the car. The suspect stopped his car, stood up in the convertible and fired several rounds at Deputy Schwartz. One round struck Deputy Schwartz in the side of the head. The suspect then fled up the Mt. Lemmon Highway with Deputy Schwartz, despite his wound, still in pursuit. The suspect stopped again on Mt. Lemmon firing repeatedly at Deputy Schwartz. Although he was wounded and without back up, Deputy Schwartz remained in pursuit until his patrol car, having been struck by numerous

Officer Involved Shooting Department of Homeland SecurityDirector Leesa Berens MorrisonIn December 2006, Ms. Leesa Berens Morrison was appointed by Governor Janet Napolitano as the first confirmed director of the newly-created state Department of Homeland Security. Prior to her appointment, Ms. Morrison served for 17 years as an Arizona Assistant Attorney General practicing administrative, civil and criminal law; and 12 years as a prosecutor in the Criminal Division of the Attorney General’s Office. In July 2005, as part of her border security program, Governor Napolitano directed Ms. Morrison to create and lead the Arizona Fraudulent Identification Taskforce, an integral part of the Governor’s “Strong Border, Secure Arizona” initiative; a statewide multi-agency taskforce.

As Director of the State Department of Homeland Security, Ms. Morrison is responsible for developing Arizona’s statewide strategy on Homeland Security preparedness and for overseeing the Federal grant funding process. She has been instrumental in the support and acquisition of much needed grant funding; with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department receiving over 3 million dollars for equipment utilized by the Department to fight border crime. Ms. Morrison’s efforts have provided the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with the tools and support needed to successfully assist the Arizona Department of Homeland Security in fulfilling their commitment to serving the citizens of Pima County, and keeping the borders safe.

Ms. Morrison’s dedication to public safety is unmistakably proven by her involvement as chair and co-chair on multiple committees. Ms. Morrison chairs the Arizona Counter Terrorism Information Center Oversight Committee and co-chairs the National Governors Associate Governors Homeland Security Advisory Council Border Security Committee; Border Governors’ Conference Border Security Work Table; and Governor’s Emergency Preparedness Oversight Council.

In special recognition and appreciation of her outstanding assistance to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and support of public safety in Pima County, Ms. Morrison is hereby presented with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Special Recognition Award.

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Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords is the youngest woman ever elected to the Arizona State Senate, serving her hometown of Tucson from 2000 to 2005. Now representing District 8 in the United States House of Representatives, Congresswoman Giffords has continued her long tradition of interest in and support for issues affecting Southern Arizona. Her congressional district encompasses over nine thousand square miles, which includes 114 miles of border shared with Mexico. This proximity makes it crucial for her to be focused on legislation concerning the many issues related to human rights and border security that have come to the forefront of governmental attention in recent years.

As a member of Congress, Congresswoman Giffords has supported the men and women who serve in the armed forces of the United States and their families by supporting legislation that improved the Montgomery GI Bill, ensuring better access to a four-year education for veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan; expanding the Family/Medical Leave Act to include additional time off work for families of injured service members; providing tax relief to military families and overseeing the improvements to facilities and care at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. She currently serves on the House Committee on Armed Services, including the Subcommittee on Air and Land Forces and the Subcommittee on Readiness. She is also a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs; including the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere and the House Committee on Science and Technology, specifically the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment.

With regard to immigration and border protection, Congresswoman Giffords authored the current Employment Verification Act, resulting in Arizona becoming the first state to utilize the E-Verify system to verify employees’ eligibility to work in the United States. She also fought to secure increased funding for the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program, which provides financial reimbursement to local law enforcement agencies for the apprehension and detention of illegal immigrants. This legislation is especially significant to the Sheriff’s Department as the only statutory provider of a secure detention facility in Pima County. Her support for border security includes efforts to increase technology and electronic surveillance, and support for the Border Patrol in the form of additional training and equipment. Finally, she supports stricter penalties for employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers.

For her devotion to duty and continued support of the security of our nation, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords is hereby presented with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, Special Recognition Award.

rounds, ceased to operate. The suspect again eluded capture. Deputies Scott Dunaway and David Smith responded to Deputy Schwartz’s call for assistance. Deputies Dunaway and Smith located the suspect vehicle in the Molino Basin Picnic area, detaining the suspect at gunpoint until responding backup Deputies could arrive and assist with the arrest. Deputy Eric Cervantez’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure in responding to a threat and recognizing the danger to citizens in the area. He risked his life to protect the community from a violent, heavily armed felon. For his uncompromising pursuit of an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona, his act of gallantry and intrepidity, and his unwavering courage as he risked his life above and beyond the call of duty, Deputy Eric Cervantez’s actions render him conspicuously above the expected standards of conduct. Therefore, Deputy Eric Cervantez is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Medal of Valor. Furthermore, Deputy Eric Cervantez sustained a gunshot wound while engaged in an action against an adversary of Pima County. Deputy Eric Cervantez is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Purple Heart. Deputy Tory Schwartz’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure in responding to a deadly threat. He risked his life to protect the community from a violent, heavily armed felon. For his uncompromising pursuit of an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona, his act of gallantry and intrepidity, and his unwavering courage as he risked his life above and beyond the call of duty, Deputy Tory Schwartz’s actions render him conspicuously above the expected standards of conduct. Therefore, Deputy Tory Schwartz is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Medal of Valor. Furthermore, Deputy Tory Schwartz sustained a gunshot wound while engaged in an action against an adversary of Pima County. Deputy Tory Schwartz is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Purple Heart. Deputy Jose Velasco’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure in responding to a deadly threat. He risked his life to protect the community from

a violent, heavily armed felon. For his uncompromising pursuit of an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona, his act of gallantry and intrepidity, and his unwavering courage as he risked his life above and beyond the call of duty, Deputy Velasco’s actions render him conspicuously above the expected standards of conduct. Therefore, Deputy Jose Velasco is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Medal of Valor. Deputy Lawrence Easton’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure in responding to a deadly threat. He risked his life to protect the community from a violent, heavily armed felon. For his uncompromising pursuit of an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona, his act of gallantry and intrepidity, and his unwavering courage as he risked his life above and beyond the call of duty, Deputy Easton’s actions render him conspicuously above the expected standards of conduct. Therefore, Deputy Easton is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Medal of Valor. Mr. Shinn’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure. His persistence enabled the Pima County Sheriff’s Department to eventually locate and arrest an armed suspect who had shot three local law enforcement officers. Mr. Shinn’s actions were clearly far above and beyond what the Sheriff’s Department would expect from citizens as he placed himself in harm’s way to aid in the capture of this violent, heavily armed felon. For his uncompromising pursuit of an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona, his act of courage, and his assistance to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, Mr. Jerry Shinn is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Citizen’s Medal. Deputy Scott Dunaway and Deputy David Smith’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure. Although they were in grave danger, they confronted a suspect who had shot multiple times at Sheriff’s Deputies and Tucson Police Officers. For their actions in capturing an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona and his fortitude, Deputy Scott Dunaway and Deputy David Smith are hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Deputy Lawrence EastonMEDAL OF VALORDeputy Easton performed a distinguished act of gallantry which renders him conspicuously above the expected standard of conduct. He continued to pursue an armed adversary of Pima County while being shot at by the suspect, placing himself in harms way.

Deputy Eric CervantezMEDAL OF VALORDeputy Cervantez risked his life above and beyond the call of duty. He continued to pursue an armed suspect, even after he was injured by gunfire.

PURPLE HEARTDeputy Cervantez suffered a gunshot wound while engaged in an action against an adversary of Pima County.

Deputy Tory SchwartzMEDAL OF VALORDeputy Schwartz risked his life above and beyond the call of duty. He continued to pursue an armed suspect, even after he was injured by gunfire.

PURPLE HEARTDeputy Schwartz suffered a gunshot wound while engaged in an action against an adversary of Pima County.

Arizona Verified Information Destruction (AVID)

Identity theft affects millions of people across the country every year. Unfortunately, Arizona is ranked number one for identity theft and fraud cases. To combat this growing crime, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department partnered with Arizona Verified Information Destruction (AVID) in a summer Identity Theft Awareness campaign. During these hard economic times, it would have been easy for the company to turn the Sheriff’s Department down. However, when the idea was pitched to them, they did

not hesitate to get involved. AVID generously donated their equipment and personnel at eight different Shred-A-Thons throughout Pima County and shredded over 50,000 lbs of documents!

For their outstanding efforts, exceptional service, and continuing support of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Pima County, Arizona Verified Information Destruction is hereby presented with this Special Recognition.

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Pima Animal Care Center and theHumane Society of Southern Arizona

In February of 2008, the Sheriff’s Department served multiple search warrants in a large-scale, dog-fighting investigation. As a result, numerous animals were seized, to include 148 dogs. All but four of these dogs were identified as pit bull terriers, which were bred for fighting. All of the animals needed to be catalogued and evaluated. Additionally, the fighting dogs required separate housing. Detectives called the Pima County Animal Care Center and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona for assistance in dealing with the seemingly overwhelming scene. Both agencies responded and quickly coordinated resources from across the state to ensure these dogs were properly handled.

The Pima County Animal Care Center went above and beyond their normal responsibilities by arranging for the transport, housing, and medical care of the seized fighting dogs. They also coordinated with agencies statewide to arrange for long-term housing of the fighting dogs. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona also volunteered their assistance in evaluating the animals, by providing an on-site veterinarian to assess the animals’ conditions, and provided several employees to assist in the search of the properties. They also assisted with the coordination of the removal of many other animals, including fish, goats, and chickens; which were later placed for adoption.

While previous investigations were still ongoing, in March of 2008, both agencies once again came to the aid of the Sheriff’s Department and its mission to stop animal cruelty. The agencies provided human and physical resources to assist in the seizure of 851 small, mixed-breed dogs seized in a hoarding investigation.

Due to the filthy, cramped living conditions, all the dogs were in need of immediate medical treatment, some with serious physical conditions.

The Pima County Animal Care Center assisted in the grueling on-sight collection of the dogs and subsequent transportation. The Humane Society of Southern Arizona not only arranged housing and medical care for the animals, they also orchestrated the adoption and long-term fostering of some of the dogs. The Humane Society, in particular, took on the task of organizing the outpouring of support from the public, which turned their not very sizable facility into a veritable M.A.S.H. unit, with employees and volunteers working around the clock to provide care for these small dogs. The subsequent influx of people wishing to adopt the dogs strained the Humane Society’s resources to the brink of collapse. Employees from both agencies worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of all the animals, while simultaneously documenting and preserving the evidence that would be necessary for the case to successfully conclude.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Pima County are eternally grateful to both agencies for their continued support and willingness to assist with protecting animals from abuse while aiding with the successful prosecution of the arrestees.

For their outstanding efforts, exceptional service, and continued support of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the protection of animals in Pima County, the Pima County Animal Care Center and the Humane Society of Southern Arizona are hereby presented with this Special Recognition.

Deputy Jose VelascoMEDAL OF VALORDeputy Velasco performed a distinguished act of gallantry which renders him conspicuously above the expected standard of conduct. He continued to pursue an armed adversary of Pima County while being shot at by the suspect, placing himself in harms way.

Deputy Scott DunawaySHERIFF’S COMMENDATION CERTIFICATEDeputy Scott Dunaway’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure. Although he was in grave danger, he confronted a suspect who had shot multiple times at Sheriff’s Deputies and Tucson Police Officers. For his actions in capturing an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona and his fortitude, Deputy Scott Dunaway is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Commendation.

Mr. Jerry ShinnSHERIFF’S CITIZEN’S MEDALMr. Shinn provided the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with vital information via his cell phone, while following an armed suspect’s vehicle through the city. Mr. Shinn clearly went above and beyond his responsibilities as a member of our community and provided exemplary service to the citizens of Pima County.

Mr. Jerry Shinnno photo available

Deputy David SmithSHERIFF’S COMMENDATION CERTIFICATEDeputy David Smith’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure. Although he was in grave danger, he confronted a suspect who had shot multiple times at Sheriff’s Deputies and Tucson Police Officers. For his actions in capturing an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona and his fortitude, Deputy David Smith is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Medal of Valor“Heroic acts arise out of desperate circumstances”

Awarded to a member of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department who is distinguished by an act of gallantry while engaged in an action against an adversary of Pima County,

the State of Arizona, or the United States of America. The act renders the recipient conspicuously above the expected standard of conduct.

This Year’s Recipients

Deputy Eric CervantezDeputy Lawrence Easton Deputy Tory SchwartzDeputy Jose VelascoDeputy Bruce Haufe

Deputy Matthew Salmon

Special RecognitionIn special recognition and appreciation of outstanding

assistance to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and support of public safety in Pima County.

This Year’s Recipients

Humane Society of Southern ArizonaPima County Animal Care Center

Arizona Verified Information Destruction (AVID)Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords

AZ Dept of Homeland Security Director Leesa Berens Morrison

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Throughout the year of 2007, a small band of volunteers quietly participated in seventeen major field operations in and around the Green Valley area, supporting law enforcement efforts. This group of Green Valley Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteers, known as “Command Post Golf Unit,” has supported missions at major crime scenes, DUI Check Points, Public Accidents, and Public Safety Awareness fairs. The Unit is comprised of a manager, drivers, technical personnel, and a clean-up crew.

Green Valley Sheriff ’s Auxiliary Volunteers Command Post Golf Unit

The Command Post Golf Unit has answered calls, day and night, and has provided an invaluable service to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the communities in and around Green Valley. Their tireless efforts, and outstanding team performance, have not gone unnoticed.

For their dedication to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and community, the Command Post Golf Unit is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Unit Commendation.

Enid BernardPaul BrownWilliam CampbellRonald Clark Sr.Edward FarverRonald GreulichJohn PackerVerna RoggeCarol RoskeyGloria SimmersMadeline SperryJohn Van Dyke

Deputy Eric Cervantez Deputy Lawrence Easton

Deputy Tory Schwartz Deputy Jose Velasco

These four brave deputies risked their lives on June 1, 2008 in an effort to protect the citizens of Pima County. They are truly

deserving of the Medals of Valor being awarded tonight.

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Deputy Bruce HaufeDeputy Matthew SalmonOn February 29, 2008, Deputies Matthew Salmon and Bruce Haufe responded to a request to check a residence for a domestic violence suspect. The suspect had earlier assaulted his girlfriend by punching and choking her. At one point during this violent assault, the suspect covered the girlfriend’s face with a pillow, placed a gun to her head, and threatened to kill her.

When Deputy Salmon and Deputy Haufe arrived at the residence, the suspect immediately fled towards a shed where he mounted an ATV quad runner. Both deputies gave chase. When they finally caught up with the suspect, Deputy Haufe struggled to pull the suspect off the quad-runner while Deputy Salmon attempted to deploy his Taser on the suspect.

The suspect fell off the quad-runner and managed to retrieve a .50 caliber handgun, which was concealed somewhere on his body. While still struggling with the suspect in a close proximity ground altercation, Deputy Haufe grabbed the suspect’s handgun; however, the suspect was still able to fire two shots. One bullet struck Deputy Salmon in the center of his chest and the second bullet ripped through Deputy Haufe’s left hand. Although he had been shot, Deputy Salmon immediately returned fire, fatally wounding the suspect. By grabbing the suspect’s weapon at the time he was attempting to fire it, Deputy Haufe caused the weapon to “stove pipe,” a malfunction that disabled the weapon. This provided Deputy Salmon the precious time he needed to stop the threat.

Both deputies required immediate medical attention. Deputy Haufe broke his foot during the struggle with the suspect and has had to undergo numerous surgeries to repair his left hand. He still suffers hearing loss from the loud report of the suspect’s handgun going off next to his head. Deputy Salmon’s ballistic vest may very well have saved his life, but he still suffered severe chest trauma and required hospitalization.

These types of events are dynamic and fast moving. Less than three minutes elapsed from the moment these two deputies arrived at the residence until the shooting was over. Yet, despite significant injuries and trauma from one of the largest caliber handguns ever made, both deputies continued to stay in the fight. These deputies are alive today because of their teamwork and tactics used in the face of extreme danger. Therefore, Deputy Matthew Salmon and Deputy Bruce Haufe are hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Medal of Valor along with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Purple Heart.

Deputy Bruce Haufe

Deputy Matthew Salmon

Sgt. Cathryn MastersSgt. Harold “Buddy” Janes

Sgt. John Stuckey IIIMs. Karina Carrasco

Ms. Christine CarrilloMs. Diana Castro

Mr. Lacey Colter Sr.Mr. Preston Conner III

Ms. Elma EsquerMs. Alicia MontoyaMs. Elizabeth OchoaMs. Yolanda OrtegaMs. Doreen Press

Ms. L. Marie SalineMs. Florina Teran

Ms. Lori Koullias, Pima County Human Resources

Personnel Unit

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On June 29, 2007, the Personnel Unit was faced with the daunting task of staffing the Department with over sixty civilians for twenty different positions. In addition, it was necessary to continue the scheduled hiring of Deputy Sheriffs and Corrections Officers. In short, the expectation was to staff all positions to ninety-five percent capacity within a year.

Lead by Sergeant John Stuckey, Sergeant Cathryn Masters, Sergeant Harold Janes, and Ms. Liz Ochoa, the Personnel Unit understood the importance of their task. Ms. Karina Carrasco and Ms. Christine Carrillo worked closely with Ms. Lori Koullias of Pima County Human Resources to schedule processes, answer applicant questions and screen them for qualifications. Ms. Yolanda Ortega and Ms. Florina Teran sent and received references from every applicant and ran countless computer inquiries. Ms. Marie Saline and Ms. Alicia Montoya met with applicants and ultimately readied them for employment. Ms. Doreen Press, Ms. Elma Esquer, and Ms. Diana Ortega provided support to the process by managing the psychological assessments and interviews. Since every applicant must undergo a background investigation, Mr. Preston Connor and Mr. Lacey Colter remained busy.

Of most concern were the vacant positions as 9-1-1 Call-taker, 9-1-1 Dispatcher, Public Safety Transcription Technician, and vacant positions as Intake Support Specialist and Public Safety Support Specialist at the Adult Detention Center. With several of these positions showing vacancies of more than ten people, current staff members were under a tremendous burden. Within three months, the Personnel Unit managed what seemed to be an impossible task. All of the vacancies in the Communications and Transcription Units were filled, with additional applicants being screened in the event of an unforeseen vacancy. This hiring process benefited other employees within the Department who were now able to take vacation time and not be asked to work overtime shifts. The Transcription Unit reduced the number of cases pending transcription to none that were older than twenty-four hours.

The entire Personnel Unit worked together on these hiring goals with little complaint and a clear understanding of what had to be done. While it is a continuous task to keep these positions filled, the effort put forth by the Personnel Unit in the last year make them deserving of the Sheriff’s Unit Commendation.

Personnel Unit Purple HeartAwarded to a person serving in any capacity with the Department who has been, or may hereafter be, wounded or killed under any action against any adversary

of Pima County, the State of Arizona, or the United States of America.

This Year’s Recipients

Deputy Eric Cervantez Deputy Tory Schwartz Deputy Bruce Haufe

Deputy Matthew SalmonDeputy Francisco Jimenez

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Deputy Eric Cervantez Deputy Tory Schwartz

Deputy Bruce Haufe Deputy Matthew Salmon

These four deputies sustained injuries while engaged in an action against an adversary of Pima County, as the direct result of

hostile criminal action. They are truly deserving of the Purple Heart Medals they are receiving tonight.

Rifle TeamSgt. Stephen CarpenterSgt. George EconomidisSgt. Patrick HillikerSgt. Harold JanesSgt. James Murphy Sgt. Russell PonzioSgt. John Stuckey IIIDeputy James Iverson Deputy John Morris

Corrections Honor GuardCorr. Sgt. Nathan HartC.O. Peter BasznianynC.O. Jesus EspinozaC.O. Charles GallegoC.O. Brian HuntC.O. Anthony LucasC.O. Shawn MaagC.O. Booker MylesC.O. Mary MylesC.O. Elsa NavarroC.O. Lindsay Young

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The Pima County Sheriff’s Department’s Honor Guard Unit, under the supervision of Sergeant Dennis Chavarria, has received high acclaim from both within and outside of Pima County for their professionalism. They are renowned for their dedication, sharpness of movement, and commanding appearance.

The PCSD Honor Guard Unit serves as the model for which others strive. They perform over two dozen

Pima County Sheriff ’s Department Honor Guard and Rifle Team Unit

events a year beyond their normal duty assignments and represent the Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Pima County to the highest degree.

For their dedication to the Unit, tireless efforts and excellence, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Honor Guard Unit is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Unit Commendation.

Commissioned Honor Guard

Sgt. Dennis ChavarriaDeputy Avery Cox

Detective Lee Ann DobbertinDeputy Christopher GarciaDetective Kevin Kubitskey

Detective Tracy SuittDeputy Monica Torralba

Deputy Jose “Rene” Valenzuela

Deputy Francisco JimenezOn March 2, 2008, Deputy Francisco Jimenez responded to a report of a man assaulting a woman in a vehicle in the 3300 block of East Alvord. When he located the vehicle, he began to approach the car on foot. Without warning, a male subject jumped out of the driver’s seat and charged Deputy Jimenez. The male had brass knuckles on his fist and struck Deputy Jimenez in the head, causing a laceration with substantial bleeding.

Deputy Jimenez was able to fight through his injury and continued to try to subdue the subject. He was able to get on the radio and request back up. Other deputies arrived on scene and assisted Deputy Jimenez in securing the subject. From statements given by the enraged suspect, it was obvious that his intention was to cause significant injuries to Deputy Jimenez.

Deputy Jimenez was transported to the hospital by ambulance where he received several stitches in his head. He also suffered a concussion as a result of the assault. The suspect was charged with Aggravated Assault for his vicious attack on Deputy Jimenez.

In recognition of his actions, and for injuries sustained as a result of this assault, Deputy Francisco Jimenez is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department’s Purple Heart.

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Deputy James Law

Deputy Derek Ogden

Deputy James Law: Public Safety Achievement Medal Deputy Derek Ogden: Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate

On February 12, 2008, Deputy James Law, who had not yet completed the Basic Law Enforcement Academy, participated in a “ride-a-long” with Deputy Derek Ogden, as a required part of the academy’s curriculum.

At approximately 1130 hours, while on patrol, Deputy Ogden became involved in a “suspicious activity” call. After receiving a description of a stolen vehicle that was associated with the call, Deputy Ogden began looking for the vehicle. Based on the description of the vehicle, Deputy Ogden realized that the stolen vehicle may have also been used in a recent residential burglary.

Deputy Ogden and Deputy Law heard radio transmissions from other deputies that the vehicle in question had been located in the area of the Tucson Mall. The driver had pulled into the parking lot of the Tucson Mall and all of the occupants fled on foot.

Deputy Ogden and Deputy Law quickly located one of the fleeing suspects and gave chase as the suspect ran inside to the upper level of the Mall. While running past several stores, the suspect discarded stolen jewelry and a handgun. As Deputy Law and Deputy Ogden gave chase, the suspect attempted to jump over the railing of the upper level.

Fortunately, Deputy Law was able to grab the suspect’s right foot, preventing him from jumping. Deputy Law was able to hold the suspect, as he dangled head first from the second floor, preventing him from falling until. Deputy Ogden arrived at the scene and helped Deputy Law pull the man to safety. The suspect was arrested for burglary in the first degree, theft, and misconduct involving weapons.

Deputy Ogden and Deputy Law not only captured the suspect, but they may have also saved the suspect from serious injury or death. For their quick actions, Deputy James Law is awarded the Public Safety Achievement Medal; and Deputy Derek Ogden is awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

Ms. Barbara CochranMr. Arthur Weatherwalks, Jr.

Ms. Stephanie AbalosMs. Sandra Armstrong

Ms. Regina BillingsMs. Catherine Bounds-Morales

Ms. Dolores BracamonteMs. Amy Brown

Ms. Melissa CasarezMs. Julie DeMaille

Mr. Stephen FentonMs. Maryann FerrariMs. Linda Heithaus

Ms. Veronica HowardMs. Amara Hudgin

Ms. Linda Huffstetler-DearingMs. Lorna Keydoszius

Ms. Alicia LaraMs. Crystal Lawson

Ms. Sylvia LebelMs. Janice Lester

Ms. Sarah LinarezMr. Daniel ManiskasMs. Laura ManiskasMs. Bonnie McCarty

Ms. Amy Leigh MollisonMs. Susanna Muñoz Carranza

Ms. Tamela PhelanMs. Doreen Quattropani

Mr. Raul RamirezMs. Juanita Reinhardt

Ms. Jade RobinsonMs. Janice Russell

Ms. Yvonne SanchezMs. Charlotte TowneMs. Leslie Valencia

Ms. Lisa WoodworthMs. Carrie Zweig

The shooting death of Tucson Police Officer Erik Hite occurred on June 1, 2008. Since Sheriff Deputies were also involved in this incident, scores of reports were generated. The DDS Unit had all dictated reports by deputies and/or detectives transcribed within 30 minutes of receipt, thus enabling them to forward any and all information about the incident to any requestor.

By August 7, 2008, the DDS Unit achieved the once seemingly impossible task of reducing the pending-

call count to zero. Since that date, the DDS Unit has achieved this goal almost on a weekly basis.

For their exemplary team effort in reducing the extensive backlog of reports, while working as a cohesive team in expeditiously providing accurate reports to the Sheriff’s Department, law enforcement community and the public, the Digital Dictation Systems Unit is deserving of the Sheriff’s Unit Commendation.

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In October 2007, the Digital Dictation Systems (DDS) Unit had an average call count in excess of 2,000 calls every 24-hours. In addition, there was a two-year backlog of involvements that required updating. During this same time period, the Department authorized an increase in staffing from 12 full-time transcribers to 30, requiring the near simultaneous training of 18 probationary employees.

Digital Dictation Systems UnitIn just under one year, members of the DDS Unit have not only trained the 18 new employees, but reduced the call-pending count significantly. The backlog of involvement updates has been eliminated; call count now averages less than 100 dictations for a 24-hour period; and in essence, the members of the DDS Unit have created an environment where reports are transcribed within 24-hours of being received.

Public Safety Achievement MedalAwarded to members of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department

or members of other public safety agencies for meritorious service involving imminent personal danger,

extreme physical challenge and/or hardship.

This Year’s Recipients

Deputy Kurt DabbDeputy James Iverson

Deputy James LawDeputy Michael Odell

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Deputy Kurt Dabb: Public Safety Achievement MedalMs. Paula Welsh: Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal On May 7, 2008, Deputy Kurt Dabb was on duty in the Foothills District when he overheard a “man down” call being dispatched. Deputy Dabb, who is assigned to the School Resource Unit, realized he was just blocks away from the call location. He arrived on scene within thirty seconds to find Nurse Paula Welsh conducting cardio pulmonary resuscitation on an unconscious man who was not breathing nor had any pulse.

Deputy Dabb coordinated with Ms. Welsh and began two-person CPR for several critical minutes until paramedics arrived. The victim was transported to the hospital where a heart beat was obtained. He survived this unfortunate incident thanks to their quick thinking and composure in the face of what would have meant certain death were it not for their intervention.

For the life-saving aid they rendered to a person in dire need, Ms. Paula Welsh is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal and Deputy Kurt Dabb is presented the Public Safety Achievement Medal.

Deputy James IversonOn May 31, 2008, Deputy James Iverson was off duty enjoying a day at home with his sons when a neighbor knocked on his door, urgently requesting help for a woman who had fallen into a swimming pool. Deputy Iverson did not delay in rushing to her aid and upon his arrival found the woman poolside, unconscious and not breathing. After confirming that someone had called 9-1-1 to activate emergency medical response, Deputy Iverson began to administer CPR to the victim. He continued CPR for an extended period of time until he was relieved by arriving Tucson Fire Department paramedics. Although the woman died in the hospital a few days later, Deputy Iverson’s efforts to revive her were not in vain. It allowed her family precious time with their loved one. In his haste to get to the victim, Deputy Iverson did not have time to get his shoes. As a result, he received severe burns to the bottom of his feet due to the sweltering pavement.

For his undaunted concern for the welfare of his neighbor, and selfless decision to act without hesitation, Deputy James Iverson is hereby awarded the Public Safety Achievement Medal.

Ms. Paula Welsh no photo available

Ms. Beatrice BritoMs. Jackie Denman

Mr. Richard KomorowskiMs. Michelle Mitchell

Ms. Tami PangleMr. Tony Portrey

Mr. Joseph RileyMr. Michael SirmonMs. Barbara WardMs. Jenna Watson

Ms. Marie “Terry” Yslas

Communications Day Shift Unit Beatrice Brito, Michelle Mitchell, Terry Yslas, Jackie Denman,

Richard Komorowski, Michael Sirmon

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Pima County Sheriff ’s Department Communications Day Shift Unit

Sunday, June 1, 2008, was not an ordinary Sunday morning in the Communications Center. At 0949 hours, the Center was hit by multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting shots fired at a residence in the 8400 block of Placita de la Manzana, in the Overton and Shannon area. 9-1-1 Dispatcher Beatrice Brito was working the North talk group and quickly dispatched deputies to the shots fired call. At 1004 hours, Deputy Eric Cervantez transmitted that he had been shot at the intersection of Ina and Oracle Roads. The events of the day quickly became chaotic. Ms. Brito broadcasted a Code 999 to assist Deputy Cervantez.

9-1-1 Call Takers Barbara Ward and Marie Yslas took calls from passersby with information regarding the suspect’s location and direction of travel, but some of the information was conflicting. 9-1-1 Dispatcher Jenna Watson was assigned to answer phones during this time and was also busy taking information regarding the shooting. Between 0945 hours and 1145 hours, Communications staff answered 237 incoming phone calls, and made 95 outgoing calls. Those numbers indicated a 160% increase in calls when compared to most other Sundays.

One passerby followed the suspect for ten miles, keeping Communications personnel updated on the suspect’s location. Deputies re-encountered the suspect at the intersection of River and Swan at 1014 hours. 9-1-1 Dispatcher Richard Komorowski was working the East talk group, as deputies from the Rincon district pursued the suspect who continued to fire at deputies.

As the pursuit continued through Tanque Verde and Sabino Canyon, Tucson Police officers assisted. At approximately 1029 hours, TPD Officer Eric Hite was fatally shot by the suspect.

During this time, 9-1-1/Dispatch Supervisor Tony Portrey coordinated the efforts of the Communications team. 9-1-1 Dispatcher Michael Sirmon, with trainee 9-1-1 Dispatcher Jackie Denman, was working South. When the Code 999 was broadcast, Mr. Sirmon took over dispatching South and Ms. Denman was delegated to answering phones. Ms. Denman was asked to maintain constant telephone contact with Tucson Police dispatch. 9-1-1 Dispatcher Joseph Riley was asked to coordinate the response of the Department of Public Safety Ranger for air support, and would answer incoming calls as he could. At 1030 hours, 9-1-1 Dispatchers Tami Pangle and Michelle Mitchell reported for duty and were assigned to answer phones.

Pulling together as a team always makes complicated incidents go more smoothly within the Communications Center. With every person in the Center working together, communicating with each other, the entire group approached this challenging incident as a team. Their actions exhibited an outstanding degree of dedication above and beyond professional standards.

For their hard work and dedication, these members of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Communications Unit are hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Unit Commendation.

Deputy Michael OdellOn July 25, 2008, while working in the San Xavier District, Deputy Michael Odell responded to a report of an unknown problem. The caller was a female who was reporting that her infant son was not breathing. Upon arrival, Deputy Odell found the mother to be very hysterical.

The mother took Deputy Odell into the house and led him to the back bedroom where he observed the infant lying on the floor in a pool of water. The child was motionless, not breathing, and his lips were bluish in color. He checked for a pulse, but did not find one. Deputy Odell began CPR on the child and advised Communications to have paramedics expedite their response. The mother stated that the child had been in the bathtub taking a bath. When she went to check on him, she found him face up and floating in the water. Deputy Odell continued to give the child breaths and chest compressions until paramedics from Drexel Heights Fire relieved him several minutes later.

While attending to the child, Deputy Odell had to contend with the family who was very upset over the events taking place. This made the situation all the more difficult. Deputy Odell was particularly affected by this incident as he has children and grandchildren of his own. For his exemplary actions, Deputy Michael Odell is hereby awarded the Public Safety Achievement Medal.

Deputy James LawDuring his days as a Recruit, Deputy James Law was involved in a foot chase that would end at the Tucson Mall with him grabbing on to a suspect, while the suspect attempted to leap off the second floor railing. Deputy Law not only saved the suspect from serious injury or possibly death, he captured a criminal who was later charged with burglary in the first degree, theft, and misconduct involving weapons.

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Public Service Achievement MedalAwarded to members of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department

or members of other public safety agencies for exemplary performance of assigned duties during the year. The actions of the member must exhibit an outstanding degree of dedication

and devotion above and beyond professional standards.

This Year’s Recipients

Detective Scott AndersDetective Therese Deschenes

Ms. Talia CareyDetective Kenneth HedrickSergeant William Murphy

Mr. Tony PortreyDeputy Thomas Price

Sheriff ’s Unit Commendation Certificate

Awarded to Units within the Pima County Sheriff’s Department for exemplary service, above and beyond the normal performance of their

assigned duties. The Unit must have distinguished itself by performing as a team to accomplish a specific, extraordinary goal or objective.

This Year’s Recipients

Communications Day Shift Unit Digital Dictation Systems Unit

Green Valley SAV – Command Post Golf Unit PCSD Honor Guard & Rifle Team Unit

Personnel Unit

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Corrections Officer Lawrence WycheOn March 7, 2008, Corrections Officer Lawrence Wyche was working in his assigned housing unit at the Main Jail Tower of the Pima County Adult Detention Center. C. O. Wyche was monitoring dayrooms when he overheard an inmate’s phone conversation and noticed that the inmate appeared to be upset. Concerned for the welfare of the inmate, C. O. Wyche approached him once he had completed his phone call and struck up a conversation. During their conversation, C. O. Wyche learned that the inmate’s wife had information about the homicide of a taxicab driver that had occurred on March 5, 2008.

C. O. Wyche contacted the Security Services Sergeant and informed him of the information he had learned. The recording of the phone conversation was reviewed and the information was forwarded to the Tucson Police Department’s Homicide Unit. At the time, there had been no leads in the case. With this information, three arrests were made in connection with the homicide.

C. O. Wyche’s observation and communication skills ultimately assisted with the arrest of three homicide suspects. His actions demonstrated true dedication to public safety and commitment to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. For his extraordinary efforts, Corrections Officer Lawrence Wyche is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Deputy David SmithDeputy David Smith’s actions displayed courage, resolve, and composure. Although he was in grave danger, he confronted a suspect who had shot multiple times at Sheriff’s Deputies and Tucson Police Officers. For his actions in capturing an adversary of Pima County and the State of Arizona and his fortitude, Deputy David Smith is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Commendation.

Detectives Scott Anders and Therese DeschenesIn March 2007, Detective Therese Deschenes, a member of the Community Problems Unit assigned to investigate animal cruelty allegations, received information from the Humane Society of the United States that a breeder of illegal fighting dogs was operating in Pima County. She and her partner, Detective Scott Anders, began what would turn out to be an extensive investigation into the underground world of illegal dog fighting.

The investigation progressed into 2008, and its scope seemed to have no end. After almost one year of tireless work; Detectives Deschenes and Anders had networked resources from 3 counties, 11 civilian agencies, 5 police departments, the Pima County Attorney’s Office, the Counter Narcotics Alliance, the United States Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms in an effort to gain substantial insight into the dog fighting world and the criminal syndicate that had roots in Pima County. In February 2008, Detectives Deschenes and Anders worked diligently and tirelessly to prepare for simultaneous service of multiple search warrants.

The result of Detective Deschenes’ and Detective Anders’ extraordinary efforts is unprecedented. Through innovation and diligence they garnered cooperation from local law enforcement, civilian agencies, and the federal government to bring three illegal breeding operations, with nationwide ties, to justice. Their efforts resulted in the seizure of 144 fighting dogs, 5 properties and $10,969 in cash. Additionally, 73 weapons were taken from the hands of criminals, numerous indictments to include six arrests locally for animal cruelty and dog fighting, as well as, one arrest for child pornography. Arrests have also been made in New York, Georgia, and Texas with other out of state warrants and arrests still pending.

Preparation for trial lasted long after the service of the search warrants with the daily processing of mounds of evidence seized at four properties. All of this work was in addition to the other animal cruelty cases for which they were also responsible, to include the seizure of over 800 dogs and puppies in March of this year.

This case could not have been successful without the tireless information gathering, sharing, and organizing performed by Detectives Deschenes and Anders. Their willingness to gather not only evidence, but education and insight into the world of dog fighting, and provide invaluable assistance in preparing the case for trial with the Pima County Attorney’s Office, demonstrates their diligence in protecting the citizens and animals within Pima County.

For their outstanding efforts, Detective Scott Anders and Detective Therese Deschenes are hereby presented the Public Service Achievement Medal.

Detective Scott Anders

Detective Therese Deschenes

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Ms. Talia Carey

On November 12, 2007, Sheriff’s 911-call taker, Talia Carey, was working in the Communications Unit when a call came in at approximately 1300 hours; a male subject was making suicidal threats. Ms. Carey heard a co-worker struggling with the caller in an attempt to obtain information. When she realized her co-worker was at a stand-still with the caller, Ms. Carey, without hesitation, offered to take over.The call came in on a cell phone, which initially only provides the deputies with a general location. With the caller refusing to provide further information, the most responding units could do was to circulate in the area, which consisted of several square miles.

Ms. Carey spent nearly 30 minutes on the phone with the caller, who was very uncooperative and abusive. Ms. Carey was eventually able to develop a rapport with the caller. She learned that the caller was armed with a handgun and was somewhere in a residential neighborhood that he was unfamiliar with. Since this was occurring during the middle of the afternoon, there was a potential danger to children who might be playing in the area. Ms. Carey continued speaking with the caller, finally convincing him that the Department’s only goal was to get him the help that he needed. The caller finally relented and gave his name and location, which allowed deputies to find him in less than two minutes. Deputies were able to resolve the situation quickly and safely without further threat to the suicidal subject, general public or responding deputies.

Ms. Carey performed exceptionally during a very stressful situation; displaying a calm demeanor, professional attitude, and exemplary communication skills. For her outstanding degree of dedication to public safety above and beyond professional standards, Ms. Talia Carey is hereby awarded the Public Service Achievement Medal.

Corrections Officer Nicholas SidoniOn the evening of March 25, 2008, off-duty Corrections Officer Nicholas Sidoni was unloading articles from his personal vehicle in front of his home when he suddenly noticed an individual running down the opposite side of the darkened street. A few seconds later, he observed a second person carrying a flashlight and chasing after the first individual. When they passed a house, Corrections Officer Sidoni used the ambient light from a porch to identify the second person as a Sheriff’s Deputy. He then heard the Deputy yell at the fleeing man “stop, you are under arrest.” Disregarding the fact that he was off-duty, and unaware of anything occurring except knowing the Deputy needed assistance, Corrections Officer Sidoni immediately joined the foot pursuit.

When Corrections Officer Sidoni reached a turn in the roadway, he heard a Taser being deployed and verbal commands from the Deputy for the suspect to stop resisting. When he arrived at the scene, the suspect was on one knee and attempting to stand up. Corrections Officer Sidoni identified himself as a Corrections Officer and pushed the suspect’s shoulder in an attempt to knock him back to the ground. The suspect continued to resist and the Deputy once more utilized his Taser in an attempt to control the suspect. Corrections Officer Sidoni then grabbed hold of the suspect’s legs and rolled him onto his stomach. This allowed the Deputy to gain control of the upper torso of the suspect and apply handcuffs with the assistance of Corrections Officer Sidoni. Corrections Officer Sidoni then stood by for backup Deputies to arrive.

Corrections Officer Sidoni has never received formal training specifically for engaging in foot pursuits. However, when he saw the situation unfold before him, he knew he could not stand idly by. He knew that a fellow employee, a Sheriff’s Deputy, was in need of assistance and did not hesitate to act. He utilized what training he had been given and his instincts for doing the right thing. Even in his off-duty time, he did not disregard his duty to the citizens of Pima County.

For his selfless actions, possibly placing himself in danger to assist with the apprehension of a fleeing suspect, Corrections Officer Nicholas Sidoni is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Corrections Officer Byron W. SeeleyCorrections Officer (C.O.) Byron W. Seeley has provided the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with nearly 23 years of dedicated service in the Ajo District. C. O. Seeley’s knowledge of his job and the professionalism with which he carries out assigned duties is without equal.

C.O. Seeley has been a willing and enthusiastic participant in numerous special projects. Most recently, his tireless work in upgrading the energy efficiency of both Property and Evidence storage buildings in Ajo is to be commended. These buildings were purchased as bare frames. C.O. Seeley diligently insulated the walls and ceilings and installed sheet rock; subsequently taping, texturing, and painting both buildings. He installed window air conditioners, which created a more comfortable working environment in each building during the hot summer months; and facilitated the installation of utilities to the Ajo District temporary duty trailers. This required digging ditches for water, sewer and power lines, as well as installation of the lines.

For his efforts above and beyond the call of duty and his extraordinary commitment to service, Corrections Officer Byron Seeley is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Deputy Derek Ogden Deputy Ogden was involved in a foot chase that led him into the Tucson Mall. The chase came to a dramatic end when he assisted a fellow deputy with pulling a suspect to safety after the suspect had attempted to leap off the second floor railing. Deputy Ogden helped save the suspect from serious injury or possibly death.

Detective Kenneth HedrickAs a member of the Major Violators Unit of the Counter Narcotics Alliance, Detective Kenneth Hedrick has been involved in a significant number of investigations during the past two years. In 2006, the unit was recognized by the Arizona Department of Public Safety by receiving the Director’s Unit Citation for “outstanding performance and significant contribution toward attainment of the department’s mission.” Detective Hedrick is always one of the first to volunteer to not only take a case, but to assist his fellow detectives in any way possible. Like other members of the unit, Detective Hedrick is subjected to working varying and extended hours, including nights and weekends, and is called out on a frequent basis. Detective Hedrick has been the case agent on numerous significant investigations, and in fact, last year was the case agent in more investigations than any other unit member.

In one recent investigation, Detective Hedrick was the case detective reference a marijuana trafficking organization. Working with two different confidential informants, Detective Hedrick identified a major marijuana supplier in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, that was arranging for loads of marijuana to be transported from Tucson to Arkansas. After seizing two loads of marijuana totaling 543 pounds during C.N.A. investigations, and identifying a third load of about 260 pounds that was seized in Texas, all of which were tied directly to the Mexican supplier, Detective Hedrick set up a “controlled delivery” of marijuana to Arkansas. Utilizing his confidential informants, 264 pounds of marijuana was picked up from a stash house in Phoenix and was ultimately delivered under law enforcement control to Little Rock, Arkansas. Traveling to Arkansas along with his supervisor, and working in conjunction with the DEA Task Force in Little Rock, Detective Hedrick directed the activities that led to agents arresting four suspects after a successful controlled delivery to a local supplier. They also seized approximately $110,000 in drug currency and several vehicles.

In another recent investigation, Detective Hedrick, working in an undercover capacity, identified a local hydroponic marijuana dealer and set up an undercover deal. Detective Hedrick purchased two pounds of high grade hydroponic marijuana at the suspect’s home and the suspect was then arrested. During the search warrant service, detectives recovered another 1½ pounds of hydroponic marijuana, as well as $20,000 in drug currency.

In addition to his duties at C.N.A., Detective Hedrick is a member of the Pima County Regional SWAT Team, where his duties include being a breacher and sniper. Detective Hedrick manages to balance his time between assignments without conflict. In recognition of his outstanding police work and dedication to duty, Detective Hedrick is hereby awarded the Public Service Achievement Medal.

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Sergeant William MurphyIn May of 2007, Detective Sergeant William Murphy recognized the need for a way to have suspects, and other people of interest to law enforcement, flagged in the Pima County Sheriff’s Department’s database. This would allow deputies to be able to identify suspects that can be arrested on probable cause or be temporarily detained to allow investigators to interview them on a pending matter. This need was magnified when Sergeant Murphy was assigned to the Domestic Violence Unit as a supervisor and became increasingly frustrated when a suspect from a serious family assault fled the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement and remained free prior to a warrant being issued.

Sergeant Murphy quickly realized that the PC Alert Program would not only be a way to hold suspects accountable in a more timely fashion, but would help immensely in officer safety as well.

Since the PC Alert Program has been initiated, 165 suspects have been discovered and arrested after being stopped by deputies in the field, or when they were being booked into the Pima County Adult Detention Center by an outside agency.

Sergeant Murphy recognized the challenge facing the Department’s ability to safely and thoroughly investigate crimes, and he was able to bring together resources from the Information Services Section, Terminal Operations Section, and the Pima County Adult Detention Center to see this project through. Sergeant Murphy’s efforts did not stop at the successful implementation of the PC Alert Program; he was personally involved in overseeing the training necessary to install this new program.

In recognition of his untiring dedication to the full implementation of the PC Alert Program and his contributions to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Pima County, Sergeant William Murphy is hereby awarded the Public Service Achievement Medal.

Deputy Jonathon RuppOn November 12, 2007, a Pima County Sheriff’s Department Dispatcher had put out an Attempt to Locate (ATL) message regarding a homicide suspect who had overpowered a guard at the Gila County Juvenile Detention Center and escaped. The suspect was 16 years of age and had been awaiting trial on two counts of homicide. In addition, the suspect had a prior arrest and conviction for using a rifle to shoot someone on a school bus. This individual had demonstrated on numerous occasions that he would use lethal force and was not afraid to confront law enforcement officers. The investigation at the Detention Center determined that the suspect had stolen a cell phone from the guard, and he was believed to have contacted his brother who lived in Sells, Arizona.

Using this information, Deputy Jonathon Rupp positioned himself to monitor traffic westbound on Arizona Highway 86 from Robles Junction, leading toward Sells. While watching the highway, Deputy Rupp observed a green Nissan pick-up truck pass his location. The truck returned registered to the same post office box in Sells that the suspect used as his address. Deputy Rupp knew that there was a chance the suspect was in the Nissan pick-up truck.

Knowing there were no Deputies available for back-up, Deputy Rupp utilized assistance from the Tohono O’Odham Police Department and conducted a high risk felony stop on the vehicle. Once the car stopped, the suspect fled on foot into the desert area and Deputy Rupp began to chase him. As Deputy Rupp pursued the suspect, the suspect stumbled and fell to the ground. Deputy Rupp took the opportunity to seek cover and deploy his Taser. Shortly thereafter, the suspect struggled to get to his feet, presumably to continue running. Knowing the suspect was considered dangerous, Deputy Rupp used his training and physically engaged the suspect, knocking him to the ground. Deputy Rupp quickly gained control of the suspect, placed him in handcuffs and took him into custody.

When the ATL information was given by the dispatcher regarding the escape at the Gila County Juvenile Detention Center, Deputy Rupp immediately recognized that the individual might try to get to his family in Sells. He used his observation skills to identify the suspect vehicle, and then tactically engaged the suspect in an effort to apprehend him. He demonstrated foresight by requesting assistance from the nearest law enforcement agency, and used sound tactics to secure the suspect in as safe a manner as possible. For his exemplary actions, Deputy Rupp is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Deputy Jason RockwellIn October 2007, Deputy Jason Rockwell was assigned to the Pima Regional Training Center as the Department Armorer. The first task he was assigned was to complete an inventory of all Department weapons and correct the system used to manage the weapons owned by the Department. This task was arduous and made more difficult by past mismanagement and improper conduct by former Department members.

This task was difficult enough to complete by starting at the very beginning. However, it was made even more challenging because Deputy Rockwell took over the project after it had already been attempted by previous staff. Former staff members had spent the previous twelve months attempting to reconcile the inventory, yet they were unsuccessful. Due to this fact, Deputy Rockwell first had to determine what had already been done on the inventory before he could decide how to proceed to finish the task.

Deputy Rockwell was able to overcome the difficulty of picking up where someone else had left off on a very tedious and time-consuming project. He sifted through numerous documents and computer records to determine what had been accomplished and what still needed to be done to complete the inventory. In addition to completing his other job responsibilities, Deputy Rockwell spent numerous hours identifying and correcting all issues related to the weapons inventory. In spite of these difficulties, Deputy Rockwell completed the inventory in less than four months and was able to account for all active department-owned weapons. His thoroughness enabled him to locate numerous weapons that had previously been entered in the inventory as lost or stolen. Deputy Rockwell was also able to find weapons that had previously been unaccounted for. His diligence saved the Department potential embarrassment, as many of the “missing” weapons that he located were set to be listed in the National Crime Information Center database as missing or stolen, when they were, in fact, either in the armory or issued to department employees.

It is important once again to note that Deputy Rockwell accomplished in a matter of months what the previous staff had been unable to do after a year. He accomplished this task in a very timely manner, thereby saving the Department countless staff hours and correcting a very large problem. The inventory is now more complete and accurate than it has ever been.

Due to Deputy Rockwell’s dedication to duty and meticulous efforts, he is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Mr. Tony PortreyJune 1, 2008 was an extraordinary day in Pima County, and the Sheriff’s Department Communications Day Shift Unit reacted in an extraordinary manner. Dispatchers, Call-Takers and 9-1-1 Dispatch Supervisor Tony Portrey were spectacular in their response to a tragic, drawn out event; remaining professional and efficient despite the demands placed upon them.

9-1-1 Dispatch Supervisor Tony Portrey was monitoring a downed aircraft call when the call came in about a shooting that was occurring in the Foothills District. The call would result in Deputies being shot, Deputies seeking and chasing the suspect, and a Tucson Police Department (TPD) Officer being shot and killed.

Once the call came in, Mr. Portrey directed his personnel, made notifications, reassigned personnel to maintain an open line of communications with TPD, initiated the response of air support, turned up the Gateway repeaters and ensured a dispatcher staffed Gateway. Additionally, Mr. Portrey made fifty-seven incident related phone calls and answered forty-three.

Mr. Portrey, understanding the importance of interagency communications, assigned a Call-Taker to call TPD Communications Unit on the direct line. He then instructed the Call-Taker to keep the line open for immediate updates to be shared between agencies. Realizing air support would be advantageous in this dynamic, cross-town shooting spree, he requested the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Ranger helicopter to launch. He also initiated the interoperable radio path Gateway. This is the common method by which DPS Ranger communicates with deputies and it also allows TPD and PCSD units to communicate with each other. Although Gateway was not used by TPD or PCSD field units, it was immediately available if they opted to do so.

Mr. Portrey’s actions, professionalism, and knowledge played a huge role in the facilitation of the suspect’s capture. He also played an integral role in the team efforts put forth by members of the Communications Unit, to increase the margin of safety for the Sheriff’s Deputies and Tucson Police Officers in the field. For his hard work, dedication and outstanding performance, Mr. Tony Portrey is hereby awarded the Public Service Achievement Medal.

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Deputy Thomas PriceDeputy Thomas Price started his career with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department in 1978. In 1979, he took on the additional responsibilities of both SWAT and Search and Rescue. He has continued in both assignments without a break in service since that time. Over the last thirty years, Tom has accomplished what no other member of the Sheriff’s Department has achieved. Between the two disciplines, it is estimated that he has participated in 4,000 missions.

Despite the continuous exposure to danger over the years, he has saved numerous lives and impacted countless more. He has been recognized as “Officer of the Year” both at state and local levels by two different civic organizations. He was also nominated as “National Officer of the Year” by one of those organizations. He has received numerous letters from citizens within our community, and across the United States, expressing their gratitude for his Search and Rescue efforts involving themselves or their family members. He has received 105 letters of appreciation from members of the Sheriff’s Department, as well as from twenty-one other local, state, and federal agencies. Furthermore, he has been awarded fifteen commendations, a Public Safety Achievement Medal, a Medal of Merit, and the Department of Public Safety Civilian Medal of Valor.

As if this were not enough, Deputy Price was a vital part of developing and integrating Tactical Emergency Medical Support, otherwise known as TEMS, into local SWAT operations. He is also a TEMS instructor for the National Tactical Operators Association.

Deputy Price’s keen insight and affable personality has had a far reaching impact on several generations of police officers. His ability to communicate with people from all walks of life, from small children to dignitaries, demonstrates a combination of confidence and reassurance. He is a unique individual who has given the Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Pima County thirty years of dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment. Given the enormity of his accomplishments, and the impact he has had on the community during that time, Deputy Thomas Price is hereby awarded the Public Service Achievement Medal.

Ms. Patty Reyes-Hendricks Ms. Patty Reyes-Hendricks has been with the Corrections Bureau for 12 years. During that time, she has served the Department as an Intake Support Specialist, Intake Support Supervisor, and Program Coordinator. Ms. Reyes-Hendricks has always excelled in every position she has held with the Bureau. In her current position as Program Coordinator, she was tasked with multiple technology based projects that support all divisions within the Corrections Bureau. In the past year, Ms. Reyes-Hendricks was instrumental in completing several of those automation projects. She handled each project from conceptual phase to implementation and testing. Of these projects, three are most notable.

In late 2007, the Sheriff’s Department took over 24/7 bond acceptance for all agencies. To streamline the operation, Ms. Reyes-Hendricks automated the “Bond Out and Release Order,” which is used to report those who have bonded out to the courts. This new automation is driven by information entered into the Jail’s database, which avoids duplication of effort and error while enabling an automatic calculation of the inmate’s next court date.

In coordination with Sheriff’s Information Services, Ms. Reyes-Hendricks supervised the creation of an electronic visitation scheduling program. This program also links to the Jail’s database to obtain live inmate housing data. Department staff is able to track visitation schedules by viewing electronic records of past visits and manage future visitations with historic data. This has reduced phone calls from the front desk to the housing units, since the program is visible to officers in the pod. This program is comparable to software that is currently for sale on the open market and vendors have described our program as innovative and cutting edge.

Perhaps her greatest accomplishment this year is the design and creation of an electronic incident reporting system for Corrections Bureau incidents. This electronic report writing system takes the place of over 50 different report types processed daily and provides an electronic tracking system for incident, location, major charges, and complaint types. Ms. Reyes-Hendricks developed this program from conception utilizing resources already available within the existing database. Again, she worked in conjunction with Sheriff’s Information Services for many months to fine tune the fields and create reports free of redundancy. As a result, real time reports are available by officer’s name, incident type, inmate’s name, time frame and location to any Bureau manager. Additionally, reports are linked to the Sheriff’s law enforcement database. If this were not enough, Ms. Reyes-Hendricks voluntarily provided training on the system’s use to over 400 Corrections Bureau members on all three shifts!

Without Ms. Reyes-Hendricks’ expertise, dedication, and attention to detail, these projects would not have been a success. Therefore, Ms. Patty Reyes-Hendricks is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Pima County Adult Detention Center’s Angel Tree Committee

For the 2007 holiday season, members of the Pima County Adult Detention Center (PCADC) formed the “Angel Tree Committee” in an effort to provide a personal service to the community of Pima County. The members recognized that there was a need in the community to help under-privileged children who, otherwise, would not be able to fully enjoy the holidays.

In their free time, the committee members collected, wrapped, and delivered over 375 holiday gifts of toys and clothing to 37 needy children within the Marana Unified School District. These children ranged in age

from 4 months to 17 years. They also handmade tree ornaments, decorated the briefing room at the PCADC, and promoted the project throughout the Corrections Bureau to ensure its success. Due to the generosity and big hearts of the Angel Tree Committee members, these children had a very special holiday season that they will always remember. For their selfless efforts, the Pima County Adult Detention Center Angel Tree Committee members are hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Corrections Lieutenant Amber BarberCorrections Sergeant Victoria DalbeyCorrections Sergeant Barbara Mattes

Corrections Sergeant John Rooney

Corrections Sergeant Denise StrangCorrections Officer Sonia LarsenCorrections Officer Mary Scott

Mr. Mark Boyce

Ms. Martha Ruff-Duval: Sheriff’s Citizen’s MedalMr. Michael Kripner and Mr. Christopher Kripner: Sheriff’s Commendation CertificateOn the evening of July 26, 2008, 18-year-old Martha Ruff-Duval was babysitting for family friends in the Corona De Tucson area. Nine-year-old Michael Kripner and his seven-year-old brother, Christopher, were enjoying the evening with Ms. Ruff-Duval when two small girls ran to their home from across the street. The girls were frantically seeking help for their older sister who had just been shot. Knowing the young girls to be the sisters of one of her best friends, Ms. Ruff-Duval ran to the residence to provide assistance. She located her friend, Alexandria Salinas, on the floor of a bedroom in the residence.

Ms. Ruff-Duval was immediately aware of how severe the injuries were to her friend and began administering first aid. She stayed with her friend until paramedics arrived, doing what she could to aid and comfort her while praying for her to live. Unfortunately, her friend died from her injuries.

Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, Christopher and Michael escorted the younger children from the scene and ensured their safety in another residence. Christopher then went outside to await the arrival of emergency personnel to ensure that they were directed to the correct address without delay.

After the arrival of medical assistance, Ms. Ruff-Duval stayed on the scene and was able to assist law enforcement officers with their investigation. Though she had just experienced a shocking and harrowing event, she was able to provide investigators a concise and detailed account of what had transpired.

For her compassionate and heroic attempts to save the life of her friend, and for her valiant assistance to investigators at the scene, Ms. Martha Ruff-Duval is hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Citizen’s Medal.

For their courage and composure during very distressing circumstances, and the immense compassion displayed for the young siblings of the victim, Mr. Michael Kripner and Mr. Christopher Kripner are hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Ms. Martha Ruff-Duval

Mr. Michael Kripner

Mr. Christopher Kripner

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Sheriff ’s Citizen’s MedalPresented to citizens of the community who are not members of the Pima County

Sheriff’s Department for exemplary service to the citizens of Pima County.

Mr. Ron BallouMr. Micah Boivin

Mr. Gilbert FimbresMr. Paul Madewell

Mr. Doug McFarlandMr. Benjamin Melendez

Mr. Raul RojasMs. Martha Ruff-Duval

Mr. Felipe SandovalMr. Jerry ShinnMr. Mark Soza

Ms. Eileen SykoraMr. Ron Tobin

Mr. Adam WelchMs. Paula Welsh

This Year’s Recipients

Deputy Donald MolchanOn the morning of March 30, 2008, Deputy Donald Molchan responded to a house fire in Green Valley. Deputy Molchan arrived promptly and ensured all family members were evacuated. The ensuing interview of the residents revealed the family dog was still trapped inside the house. Despite a language barrier, Deputy Molchan was able to obtain a description of the home’s floor plan and acted quickly. He entered the home to search for and rescue the dog; however, was unsuccessful after an initial attempt. He subsequently obtained more details from the family and attempted a second time. On his hands and knees through thick smoke he found the dog cowering under a bed. He grabbed the dog by the collar and exited the residence, avoiding injury to himself and certain death to the family’s dog.

Deputy Molchan’s action’s helped reduce this family’s trauma during this unfortunate incident. For his compassionate actions and high regard for the value of life, Deputy Molchan is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Mr. Steven MonrealIn June of 2006, Mr. Steven Monreal, a 9-1-1 dispatcher for Ajo, assumed the duties of radio and computer technical support for the Ajo District. In addition to performing his duties as a dispatcher, Mr. Monreal assists the radio shops and IST in Tucson with programming and installing computer equipment for the Ajo District. He also maintains the district command post so it will be available when needed.

Mr. Monreal will come in to assist with any emergency situation, such as the loss of electrical, radio or telephone service; not only at the district office, but to the town as well. He has gone out at all hours of the night to trouble-shoot radio and computer problems, while still performing all of his regular duty assignments. He has even responded to these situations while on vacation or on his regular days off.

Mr. Monreal was also involved with the implementation of the new 9-1-1 telephone system, the rewiring of radio and computer cables, and installation of new equipment for the district.

Because of his persistence and dedication to his job responsibilities within the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, Mr. Steven Monreal is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Deputy Pedro LopezOn March 21, 2008, Deputy Pedro Lopez, while on patrol in the Foothills District, responded to a burglary call. This incident involved several suspects who had stolen two vehicles, keys to the vehicles and home, a shotgun, credit cards, the homeowner’s Social Security card, and several other miscellaneous items.

Once on scene, Deputy Lopez had the homeowner call her bank to put a freeze on her credit cards and to see if there were any pending charges. It was discovered that money had recently been withdrawn from her checking account. There was also a pending charge at a Best Western Inn Suites in the Tucson area. Deputy Lopez then contacted the hotel and advised the manager of the situation. He was able to obtain information that showed the homeowner’s check card had been used to rent a room at the hotel and the room was registered under the homeowner’s name. Deputy Lopez put together a team of deputies and officers with the Tucson Police Department to make contact with the suspect(s) at the hotel.

Once at the hotel, Deputy Lopez and his co-workers located the suspects and the two stolen vehicles. Deputy Lopez also discovered a set of keys in one of the vehicles which did not belong to the original homeowner. After making several calls, Deputy Lopez was able to determine who the keys belonged to and made telephonic contact with that owner. The owner advised Deputy Lopez that his work truck had been broken into and several items had been stolen. Deputy Lopez made arrangements with that owner to have the keys returned to him the next day.

During this investigation, other stolen property, to include property from thefts that had been committed by the suspects in the hotel parking lot, was recovered. Deputy Lopez was advised that these suspects were also suspects in several other burglaries, both in Pima County and the City of Tucson.

When Deputy Lopez responded to the home to take the burglary report that day, he used his investigative skills to build upon the trail that the suspects had left in order to find their current whereabouts. Once they were located, he continued his tenacious investigation and was able to link the suspects to other crimes they had committed that same day. Further investigation revealed other incidents in which the suspects might have been involved. Their names were provided to detectives in order to provide them with leads and additional information in their cases.

Deputy Lopez’s commitment and dedication to duty led to several suspects being arrested for multiple crimes, including First Degree Burglary. For his actions, Deputy Pedro Lopez is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Deputy Palomino RescueShortly after noon on February 6, 2008, Deputy Hector Palomino was responding to a reported motor vehicle collision at Ajo Way and Kinney Road. As he drove westbound on Ajo Way at La Cholla Boulevard, an eastbound pickup truck turned into the path of his patrol car. The vehicles collided in the intersection and Deputy Palomino’s car was sent careening off the road and over a large boulder. The impact with the boulder caused Deputy Palomino’s car to overturn, landing on the driver’s side, trapping Deputy Palomino behind the steering wheel.

Immediately after the collision, a dozen witnesses rushed to the patrol car while others aided the other driver and directed traffic. The initial impact with the truck had inflicted catastrophic damage to the front end of the car dislodging the engine from its mounts and breaking the fuel lines. Gasoline from the broken lines ignited a fire in the engine compartment and heavy smoke emanated from the car. Deputy Palomino lay unconscious in the patrol car as the flames began to spread toward the passenger compartment.

Without regard for their safety, these heroic citizens approached the car and broke out its remaining windows in an effort to reach Deputy Palomino. The damage to the car was too extensive to reach the stricken deputy. Together, they pushed the 4000 pound car back to an upright position. As they did this, flames began to leap from under the hood across the windshield of the patrol car.

The driver’s side door of the patrol car was crushed in a closed position. The damage to the interior of the car and the prisoner partition prevented removing Deputy Palomino through any other door. The rescuers forcefully tore open the patrol car’s driver’s door as another bystander took photographs, capturing the heroic nature of their actions. Together, the rescuers attempted to suppress the fire using a handheld fire extinguisher as others untangled Deputy Palomino from the car’s interior and pulled him to safety. They continued to render aid to Deputy Palomino until other responding law enforcement and fire personnel could arrive and further stabilize the situation.

Deputy Palomino was airlifted from the crash scene. He was treated for his extensive injuries and was expected to fully recover. The entire passenger compartment of the patrol car was consumed by the fire shortly after Deputy Palomino was pulled from his car. Had it not been for the immediate, concerted efforts of these twelve citizens it is highly unlikely that Deputy Palomino would have survived this horrific accident.

For knowingly risking their safety to save a life and for displaying courage and perseverance in the face of catastrophe; these twelve citizens were presented a Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal and Certificate at the Board of Supervisor’s Meeting held on March 4, 2008. The Sheriff’s Department would like to recognize and thank these individuals tonight for their selfless display of heroism.

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Deputy Palomino Rescue

Mr. Ron Ballou, Mr. Micah Boivin, Mr. Gilbert Fimbres, Mr. Paul Madewell, Mr. Doug McFarland, Mr. Benjamin Melendez, Mr. Raul Rojas, Mr. Felipe Sandoval,

Mr. Mark Soza, Ms. Eileen Sykora, Mr. Ron Tobin, Mr. Adam Welch

Sergeant Harold JanesIn October 2007, Sergeant Harold Janes was assigned as the Rangemaster at the Pima Regional Training Center (PRTC). Upon assuming the position of Rangemaster, he was assigned numerous priority projects that needed immediate attention. The PRTC was also going through staffing changes and the entire staff was new to the unit.

Despite the Department’s weapons inventory being assigned a full twelve months prior to Sergeant Janes’ arrival, it had yet to be completed. Within four months of Sergeant Janes being assigned to the Center, the weapons inventory was complete and more accurate than it had ever been. This success was a direct result of Sergeant Janes’ direction, management and involvement in the process. The inventory was no small task and required hundreds of hours to locate all weapons, cross-reference serial numbers, contact personnel, and search computer databases. The process involved correcting numerous erroneous serial numbers and entries of “missing” and “stolen” weapons in the computer system, which had also affected the National Crime Information Center database.

While assigned to the Pima Regional Training Center, Sergeant Janes was also credited with taking the initiative to research and establish which government entity was responsible for maintaining the road outside the Center and requesting the road be repaired. Having the road repaired saved Department vehicles from costly repairs brought on by traveling the rugged road in front of the Center.

These two projects alone were quite an accomplishment and took a tremendous effort by Sergeant Janes to complete. However, he was integral in numerous other projects and improvements to the facility. He initiated and coordinated the remodel of the office; suggested and coordinated the completion of a new computer lab, and had the foresight to design the new computer lab to be used as a backup to the Sheriff’s Operations Center, if needed; and initiated the design and completion of a protective wall along range number five, after seeing a need for the safety of personnel using the tactical area of the range.

One of Sergeant Janes’ last projects as Rangemaster was to assist with the transition from the Remington 7615P to the AR-15 patrol rifle. Sergeant Janes stayed in constant contact with the vendor to facilitate a quick delivery of the AR-15s and developed a transition plan to get personnel trained and the rifles quickly assigned.

For his efforts and the accomplishments he and his staff attained during his supervisory assignment at the Pima Regional Training Center, Sergeant Harold Janes is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

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Green Valley Sheriff ’s Auxiliary Volunteers, Golf “4”

On November 11, 2007, Green Valley Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer (SAV) Unit “Golf 4” was doing routine patrol through various parking lots. As they were driving through the back parking lot of Carondelet Medical Mall, they found an elderly man lying on the pavement in a pool of blood. They immediately called for an ambulance and began to administer first aid.

The victim, a 78 year old male, reported that he was out for a walk when he lost his balance and fell, hitting his head on the pavement. The parking lot where he was found was not used on Sundays and the following

Monday was a holiday. It is quite possible that the victim would not have been seen by anyone for many hours. Although he was conscious and alert when found, the vigilant patrol work by these SAVs may have saved his life.

For their calm, decisive actions to a person in dire need of higher medical care, Mike Herndon, Madeline Sperry, Thomas Kane, and Dennis Henson are hereby awarded the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Sheriff’s Commendation.

Michael Herndon Dennis Henson Thomas Kane Madeline Sperry

Ms. Martha Ruff-Duval For her compassionate and heroic attempts to save the life of her friend, and for her valiant assistance to investigators at the scene, Ms. Martha Ruff-Duval is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal. (Page 27)

Mr. Jerry ShinnMr. Shinn provided the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with vital information via his cell phone, while following an armed suspect’s vehicle through the city. Mr. Shinn clearly went above and beyond his responsibilities as a member of our community and provided exemplary service to the citizens of Pima County. He is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal. (Page 6)

Ms. Paula WelshFor the life-saving aid she rendered to a person in dire need, Ms. Paula Welsh is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Citizen’s Medal. (Page 18)

Ms. Paula Welsh no photo available

Mr. Jerry Shinn no photo available

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Shannon Russell Outstanding Corrections Officer

of the Year AwardIn recognition and appreciation of exceptionally high standards,

dedication to duty, and professionalism in the day-to-day performance of duties for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department Corrections Bureau.

This Year’s Recipient

Corrections Officer Brent Derrick

Deputy Kori GreeneDeputy Kori Greene is currently assigned to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department’s Ajo District. She has demonstrated superior knowledge of the Arizona vehicle traffic laws, and has utilized this knowledge to make traffic stops on suspected drug traffickers in the town of Ajo.

During two recent traffic stops, Deputy Greene developed probable cause to investigate further and was able to locate and recover a large amount of Methamphetamine. She was then able to secure confessions from two suspects as to their knowledge and profit from the transportation and sales of drugs in Ajo. Her efforts have resulted in the conviction of one suspect who was sentenced to several years in prison.

The efforts of Deputy Greene have also resulted in the seizure of over 100 grams of Methamphetamine, Heroin, numerous vehicles, and the seizure of cash and real estate from the above mentioned suspects.

Deputy Kori Greene has shown a skill far beyond her tenure, which does not go unnoticed. For her exemplary efforts and dedication to public safety, she is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Mr. Ken GraffDuring the months of May, June, and July 2008, the principal of Sycamore Elementary School, Mr. Ken Graff, graciously allowed the Pima County Sheriff’s Department to use the school for the Department’s annual Tactical Advanced Officer Training. During this training, deputies are taught numerous tactics and methods on how to respond to an active shooter in an extraordinary deployment situation.

As the training progressed, Mr. Graff accommodated all the needs of the Sheriff’s Department. When asked for full access to the school library, he contacted the neighboring middle school staff to ensure that the joint use facility would be available. Department staff later found that the original plan to share the multi-purpose room with the summer program students was not practical. When this was brought to Mr. Graff’s attention, he went out of his way to relocate the students so that Department staff could have unrestricted use of the room.

Mr. Graff proved to be an accomplished diplomat and liaison when, early on, a concerned parent became upset about the activity which was taking place in close proximity to the students who were participating in the summer program classes. Mr. Graff appeased the parent by explaining the safety measures being employed, as well as talking about the significant benefits this training was providing to the deputies.

Using the school campus created a realistic training environment that better prepared the Pima County Sheriff’s Department to protect the citizens of Pima County. This training would not have been possible without Principal Ken Graff. For his assistance and generosity throughout our time at Sycamore Elementary School, Mr. Ken Graff is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Corrections Officer Brent DerrickCorrections Officer (C.O.) Brent Derrick has been with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department for 15 years and has worked all four Corrections Bureau facilities as well as four specialty assignments. He has further served the Department as a Corrections Training Officer, instructor at the Corrections Academy, and is also weapons qualified for transports and hospital assignments. C.O. Derrick never turns down an assignment or the opportunity to work in new areas. These additional qualifications make him a versatile employee and a tremendous asset to the Corrections Bureau.

Although C.O. Derrick’s performance over the past 15 years has been exemplary, he has exceeded the Bureau’s expectations for excellence during the last year. C.O. Derrick voluntarily supervised a crew of inmates to completely refurbish two of our larger housing units. Due to rising populations and legal demands, these units needed to be refurbished quickly to incorporate rising mental health populations. C.O. Derrick worked tirelessly with his crew for several weeks to accomplish the mission. Contractor quotes estimated that the work required in each pod would take at least three weeks and possibly longer. His unique supervisory style and dedication to task motivated his inmate crew to stay focused and complete each pod in less than two weeks. He worked autonomously and did not require direct oversight to accomplish renovation. The newly refurbished pods are now populated with inmates and with staff members who take pride in their newly refurbished environment.

In recognition and appreciation of his exemplary dedication, exceptionally high standards, dedication to duty and professionalism in the day-to-day performance of his duties for the Corrections Bureau, Corrections Officer Brent Derrick is hereby awarded the Shannon Russell Corrections Officer of the Year Award.

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Sheriff ’s Commendation CertificateAwarded to members of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department,

members of other law enforcement agencies, or citizens of the communityfor dedication to public safety, outstanding commitment and devotion to the Department,

or exceptional service to the community.

This Year’s Recipients

SAV Arthur Anderson

Detective Melody Boudreau

Deputy Tiberius Bowe

Ms. Jenifer Boyce

Corrections Officer Matthew Butler

Circle K Tucson Division

Detective Karen Couture

Deputy Matthew Dixon

Deputy Scott Dunaway

SAV Wayne Eells

Deputy Jeffrey Garcia

Mr. Frank Gonzales

Mr. Frederick Gonzales

Deputy Augustine Gonzalez

Mr. Ken Graff

Deputy Kori Greene

SAV Dennis Henson

SAV Michael Herndon

Deputy Gabriel Jacobs

Sergeant Harold Janes

SAV Thomas Kane

Mr. Christopher Kripner

Mr. Michael Kripner

Deputy Pedro Lopez

Deputy Elliott Lyle

Deputy Clifford McGrath

Deputy Donald Molchan

Mr. Steven Monreal

Sergeant Joseph Murphy

Deputy David Neuss

Deputy Ryan O’Connor

Deputy Derek Ogden

PCADC Angel Tree Committee

Ms. Patty Reyes-Hendricks

Former C.O. Joshua Roberts

Deputy Jason Rockwell

Deputy Jonathon Rupp

Deputy Francisco Santa Maria

Corrections Officer Byron Seeley

Detective Scott Shafer

Corrections Officer Nicholas Sidoni

Deputy David Smith

SAV Madeline Sperry

Deputy Larry Summerfield

Deputy Michael Walsh

Detective Jeffrey Whitbeck

Corrections Officer Lawrence Wyche

Mr. Frederick GonzalesMr. Frederick Gonzales has served the citizens of Pima County for many years through his work at the Pima County Attorney’s Office and his current position at the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Mr. Gonzales is a Public Safety Support Specialist for the Criminal Investigations Division who over the years has continually demonstrated his willingness to make the system work for victims and citizens in our community. His efforts have streamlined the process by which countless fugitives have been identified, located and arrested.

Mr. Gonzales is an investigator, an administrative assistant, and a dispatcher to a multi-agency task force. In addition to the variety of tasks this assignment entails, he is often asked to assist other units within the Criminal Investigations Division. These requests require knowledge and expertise in areas outside of those for which he is responsible, whether it is casework, computer problems, running video/audio equipment during interviews, contacting other agencies, preparing photo line-ups, or assisting and covering for other Public Safety Support Specialists; he performs every task with the utmost professionalism. He never declines a request for assistance and seems happy to help anyone who asks.

Mr. Gonzales answers to many supervisors and he consistently completes his assigned tasks in exemplary fashion. His efforts help to keep the Sheriff’s Department in good standing with members of the community and other agencies across the country. His good humor and wry comments have often brightened the sometimes grim mood of fugitive investigations.

Mr. Gonzales has set the bar high and is an inspiration to all who have had the opportunity to work with him. He embodies the ideals of professionalism, dedication, and devotion to duty, and his efforts have impacted the lives of many who will never hear his name. In recognition of his outstanding service and contributions to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, Frederick Gonzales is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

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Mr. Frank GonzalesIn August 2004, Mr. Frank Gonzales, then the Records Unit Supervisor, took over responsibility for the Department Vehicle Immobilization Program. As this program moved forward under his supervision, the Records Unit developed a tracking program for immobilized vehicles to ensure statutory compliance and Department accountability. To date, the unit has processed approximately 10,000 vehicles under this statute, accounting for over 3/4 of a million dollars in administrative fees utilized to fund the program under a statutory provision.

In 2006, Mr. Gonzales was instrumental in the implementation of on-line public record releases of Department accident reports, saving the Department operational expenses and providing a convenient service to the community.

In October 2007, Mr. Gonzales was promoted to Records Manager. During that year, thanks to his outstanding leadership, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department was certified by the State of Arizona in Electronic Records Retention; at the time, only one of four agencies in the state to meet the criteria. At present, all Department records have been converted to digital format, to include all cold case homicides, enabling detectives to review cases immediately and more effectively. Because of his knowledge and experience in this field, Mr. Gonzales is currently a Review Committee Member with the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission for Records Retention. Frequently, representatives from other agencies seek his expertise in matters regarding retention of public records.

Mr. Gonzales also manages the Digital Dictation Systems Unit. Since October of 2007, the Department has hired 18 transcribers. Thanks to appropriate staffing levels provided by the Department, coupled with excellent training and unit productivity, this year the call count was dramatically reduced from an average of over 1,300 calls to less than 100 calls during a 24-hour period, meaning all reports are completed within 24 hours of dictation.

For his exemplary leadership and contribution to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department, Mr. Frank Gonzales is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Arthur AndersonWhile off duty and at the Green Valley bowling alley on September 28, 2007, Green Valley Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Arthur Anderson was preparing to bowl when he heard someone yell that a man was in distress at one of the other lanes. SAV Anderson rushed to the lane to find a man unconscious and the people around him trying to talk to him and make him comfortable. SAV Anderson noticed the man was not breathing. He got down on his knees, checked the victim’s breathing passageway, and then started chest compressions. As a result, every so often the man would take a deep breath.

Rural/Metro paramedics arrived and relieved SAV Anderson, continuing with chest compressions and administering oxygen and AED. Paramedics transported the man to a hospital; however he was still not breathing on his own. When SAV Anderson later followed up on the man’s condition, he discovered the man was alive, but in a coma.

Although a volunteer with the Sheriff’s Department, Arthur Anderson was just beginning to enjoy time off when this incident occurred. At that time, he was like any other citizen of Green Valley, but he did not respond like one. He used his training and experience to take quick action when others appeared unsure about what to do. SAV Anderson intervened in a medical emergency and enabled the victim to take at least intermittent breaths until paramedics arrived. Although it is unknown what caused the victim’s distress, it is clear that the actions of SAV Anderson were life saving in nature. Therefore, for his outstanding efforts and quick action, SAV Arthur Anderson is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

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Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer Wayne EellsOn the evening of Sunday, April 27, 2008, Green Valley Sheriff’s Auxiliary Volunteer (SAV) Wayne Eells was home in bed when he smelled smoke. He immediately got dressed and went outside to see where the smoke was coming from. SAV Eells grabbed his pickup keys and SAV radio and proceeded to drive around the neighborhood. He soon discovered a building fully engulfed in flames. The building was a local air conditioning business. Flames were coming from the roof of the building and there were no fire trucks in sight. SAV Eells called the Sheriff’s Department’s Communications Center and had the Rural Metro Fire Department dispatched.

This is a typical example of the dedication and professionalism SAV Eells displays when he reports for duty. His commitment to his community and the mission of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department is unwavering. For his exceptional service to the community, SAV Wayne Eells is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation.

Deputy Scott DunawayDeputy Dunaway’s actions on June 1, 2008, displayed courage, resolve and composure. Although he was alone and in grave danger, he confronted a suspect who had shot multiple times at Sheriff’s Deputies and Tucson Police Officers. For his fortitude and actions in capturing an adversary of Pima County, Deputy Scott Dunaway is awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

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Deputy Larry SummerfieldDeputy Matthew DixonDuring the early morning hours of January 28, 2008, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department received a report of a drunk driver endangering other drivers on the roadway. The description of the vehicle was given to patrol deputies and Deputy Matthew Dixon located the vehicle. Deputy Dixon attempted to pull the vehicle over by activating his lights and siren. The driver fled from Deputy Dixon and it was later learned that the driver was a wanted felon. Deputy Dixon gave chase, remaining calm and collected, as he relayed information to responding back-up units.

Upon arriving at the river crossing at Camino De La Tierra and the Rillito River, the suspect driver ran the barricades that had been set up due to the high level of water in the river crossing. He drove into the rushing water and instantly went from fleeing suspect to desperate victim. The suspect’s vehicle became stuck in the water, which continued to rise even as the suspect attempted to get out of his car.

While awaiting fire department rescue efforts, the subject was swept away from his vehicle and carried down the rushing river. Deputy Dixon ran along the edge of the water, parallel to the victim, maintaining his light on the subject’s location to coordinate rescue efforts. Deputy Larry Summerfield, a Sheriff’s Department K-9 handler, arrived on scene. Deputy Summerfield retrieved a 30 foot canine lead from the trunk of his patrol vehicle and ran after Deputy Dixon and the endangered subject.

Several yards downstream, the subject was able to swim towards the bank and cling to a tree that was still twenty feet from the bank. Thanks to Deputy Dixon lighting the way, Deputy Summerfield was able to find the subject. Deputy Summerfield threw the lead to the subject and both deputies were able to pull the subject to safety. They promptly took him into custody without further incident.

Law enforcement is a dynamic job where roles can change in an instant. Ingenuity, quick thinking and ability to use life saving actions are required for anyone to be successful in these situations. For demonstrating all of these qualities, and for their flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances and moving from the position of pursuer to that of rescuer, Deputy Larry Summerfield and Deputy Matthew Dixon are hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

Deputy Larry Summerfield

Deputy Matthew Dixon

Linda Vista FireIn the early morning hours of April 24, 2008, deputies responded to two large apartment complexes at Linda Vista and Thornydale Roads regarding reports of multiple buildings on fire. Responding deputies and fire personnel arrived to find two apartment buildings in the final construction phase completely engulfed in flames, which then spread to, and destroyed, an adjacent building occupied by several families.

The quick actions by the first deputies arriving on the scene were directly responsible for the successful evacuation of the residents. The deputies from the Foothills District Midnight Squad went above and beyond the call of duty to evacuate those in imminent danger. Risking their own lives, they went door to door in an intensely heated environment to ensure the safety of the residents in the affected buildings.

After the Fire Department extinguished most of the blaze, the Arson Unit was notified. Detectives responded to the scene and began the arduous task of investigating the cause of the blaze.

Patrol and SRO deputies located some individuals who offered information on potential suspects. Within hours, four promising suspects were identified. Detectives immediately set out to find these individuals, receiving valuable assistance from the FIST Unit. In the next 16 hours, detectives tracked down the suspects, conducted intensive interviews, served two search warrants, and arrested the suspects responsible.

The damage to the complex was estimated at over 3 million dollars. Though some victims were injured, it was a miracle that no lives were lost.

The below-mentioned members of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department exemplify the mission of the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. Therefore, for their exceptional service and devotion to the community and to the Sheriff’s Department, they are hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

Sergeant Joseph Murphy

Detective Melody Boudreau

Deputy Tiberius Bowe

Deputy Jeffrey Garcia

Deputy Laura Gil

Deputy Augustine Gonzalez

Deputy Gabriel Jacobs

Deputy Brett Joiner

Deputy Elliott Lyle

Deputy Clifford McGrath

Deputy David Neuss

Deputy Ryan O’Connor

Deputy Francisco Santa Maria

Detective Scott Shafer

Deputy Michael Walsh

Detective Jeffrey Whitbeck

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Linda Vista Fire

Detective Melody Boudreau Deputy Tiberius Bowe Deputy Jeffrey Garcia Deputy Laura Gil

Deputy Gabriel Jacobs Deputy Brett JoinerDeputy Augustine Gonzalez Deputy Elliott Lyle

Detective Karen CoutureDetective Karen Couture is assigned to the DEA Task Force within the Counter Narcotics Alliance. In September of 2007, she was assigned as lead investigator of a local drug case that ultimately revealed an intricate organization with connections on both national and international levels.

On September 22, 2007, Foothills patrol units responded to what was believed to be a burglary in progress. Upon arrival, suspects fled in vehicles from the residence that was later learned to be a distribution point for marijuana. Patrol units pursued and apprehended three suspects and 5,100 pounds of marijuana. Upon her arrival, Detective Couture began the arduous task of search warrant execution and sifting through mountains of evidence, which led to an additional seizure of 5,700 pounds of marijuana from the residence.

The tedious task of analyzing forensic evidence on over 600 bales of marijuana linked it to drug ledgers at the residence and eventually led her to identify a major Drug Trafficking Organization. Drug ledgers revealed that nearly 205,000 pounds of marijuana had been transported from the residence in the previous nine months. Money ledgers seized indicated that the organization received over 102 million dollars from the distribution of marijuana during that time frame.

This marijuana seizure was determined to be the third largest in Tucson Metropolitan history. The proceeding investigation resulted in 18 search warrants at residences, banking institutions, and tax firms. To date, 10 vehicles, 4 residential properties, 3 businesses and associated real estate are pending seizure for state forfeiture.

While maintaining a heavy case load, Detective Couture has tirelessly dedicated her efforts to the post seizure investigative follow-up in an effort to ensure the exploitation of all investigative leads and the successful prosecution of this investigation. For her exemplary efforts, Detective Karen Couture is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

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Circle K Corporation, Tucson DivisionFor the past several years, the Pima County Sheriff’s Department has hosted an Annual Halloween Safe Night at Tucson Electric Park, providing children in the metropolitan Tucson area a safe environment to celebrate the holiday. The Tucson Division of the Circle K Corporation is an invaluable asset to these festivities.

The Circle K Corporation’s Tucson Division has been an exceptionally enthusiastic and energetic catalyst, providing a large portion of the candy that is distributed to the children attending the event. During the first year of their involvement, they collected seven hundred pounds of candy. The second year, they doubled that amount. In 2007, their efforts alone contributed to more than one-third of all the candy that was given to the hundreds of children in attendance.

Without the involvement of the Tucson community, the Department would not be able to host events such as the Halloween Safe Night. For their generosity and compassion in assisting the Pima County Sheriff’s Department with this worthwhile endeavor, the Tucson Division of the Circle K Corporation is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

Linda Vista Fire

Sergeant Joseph Murphy Deputy David Neuss Deputy Ryan O’Connor

Deputy Francisco Santa Maria Detective Scott Shafer Deputy Michael Walsh Detective Jeffrey Whitbeck

Deputy Clifford McGrath

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Jenifer L. BoyceJenifer Boyce, even though not an employee with the Sheriff’s Department, has devoted many hours in support of numerous departmental projects and staff over the past twenty-seven years. Jenifer never seeks recognition or reward and truly feels that she is a part of the Sheriff’s Department family. She proudly does her part.

Jenifer has volunteered at fundraisers for the Corrections Heroes Assistance Team. This program provides support to members of the Department who are called to active military service. Members of this project also support the family of the Department member while their loved one is serving in the military. Jenifer spends time on the Angel Tree Program, an effort that provides needy families with food and gifts during the holiday season. She helps prepare food and entertainment for the Fourth of July celebration at the Training Center, volunteers at the Halloween Safe Night for Kids event, and has aided her husband in his role as a Peer Support Team Member. Jenifer is also very active with the 100 Club of Arizona. This organization provides financial and emotional support to public safety personnel who have been injured in the line of duty, or to the family members when public safety personnel are killed while serving their community. She has responded to area hospitals to be with family members during these times and has spent countless hours preparing meals and delivering 100 Club benefits.

In tragic times when Tucson-area public safety members are killed in the line of duty, Jenifer voluntarily sews mourning bands so that staff can appropriately show their respect and support. To date, she has provided over 5,000 mourning bands for officers’ badges.

Jenifer participates in all of these programs because she is thankful for the hard work and dedication that is demonstrated every day by the members of this Department. She recognizes the sacrifices being made and feels that it is her responsibility to give of herself in return. For her outstanding service and continuing commitment to the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Pima County, Mrs. Jenifer L. Boyce is hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

Corrections Officer Matthew ButlerFormer Corrections Officer Mr. Joshua Roberts In June 2007, Corrections Officer Butler and former corrections officer Joshua Roberts were requested to assist with the repair and routine maintenance of a newly acquired body alarm system. This system, when activated by an officer, identifies the need for assistance by initiating an alarm in the Central Control Room of the Pima County Adult Detention Center. Both men took the initiative to learn all of the computer aspects, functionality, and repair issues of the body alarms, repeaters, and the infrared transmitters for this system. Corrections Officer Butler and Mr. Roberts’s dedication and diligence were vital in identifying equipment malfunctions and inaccuracies in the computer system, as well as integration problems between the hardware and software. They also interacted with the manufacturer of the system to gather additional information to identify and correct problems within the system. For their hard work and dedication to this project, which is vital to the safety and security of fellow officers, program volunteers, and visitors alike, Corrections Officer Matthew Butler and former corrections officer Joshua Roberts are hereby awarded the Sheriff’s Commendation Certificate.

Corrections Officer Matthew Butler

Former Corrections Officer Mr. Joshua Robertsno photo available