Thursday, August 29, 2013

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

Theft of Vehicle / Arrest
On August 28 at 10:40pm, an officer responded to the area of 3900 N Santiago Cir reference the report of a suspicious vehicle with someone possibly sleeping inside. Our officer arrived and found the vehicle was stolen out of Maricopa County. Additional officers arrived, including a K-9 unit. The vehicle was not occupied. Items inside the vehicle led to the identification of a possible suspect. Officers searched the neighborhood and were able to gather information leading them to believe the suspect was somewhere on the golf course. The police K-9 located the suspect hiding near some desert brush. He was taken into custody without incident. During a post-Miranda interview, the suspect admitted to stealing the truck, burglary and possession of narcotics.

Wednesday, August 28, 2013

Yerberia Shops Investigation

During the last twelve (12) months, the Mesa Police Department's Street Crimes Unit has been conducting an investigation into individuals, who either own or operate several Los 3 Amigos and El Renacer Yerberia Shops in our Valley, regarding the illegal sale of controlled/prescription only drugs manufactured in Mexico.

This morning those efforts resulted in the service of 14 search warrants throughout the cities of Mesa, Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, and Tolleson. Seven of these locations were the residences of individuals involved and the remaining seven were the various Yerberia shop locations. The warrants were successfully and safely served with the assistance of several of our local law enforcement sister agencies -- Phoenix PD, Scottsdale PD, Tempe PD and Chandler PD. Additional investigative assistance was received at these locations by DEA and the FDA.

While the investigation is still ongoing, we can report that so far twelve individuals have been arrested in connection with this criminal enterprise. In addition, several residences, businesses, vehicles and bank accounts have been seized as evidence. There were no injuries to suspects or officers during the service of these search warrants. 


Thursday, August 22, 2013

Do You Know This Man? Please Help.



DOES ANYONE KNOW THIS PERSON? This is still unsolved and investigators are asking for the public's assistance in identifying this suspect. Any information to Silent Witness or Mesa PD.

Commercial Burglary

On July 30 at 7:00 pm and July 31 at 6:00 am, a window was broken at the Toka Sticks Smoke Shop, 6910 E. Williams Field Road. The suspect was seen with bolt cutters, walking around the building. Suspect is a White male, thin build. Last seen wearing a gray or light-colored hoodie, light colored shorts and black skater-style shoes. 

Please submit any information regarding the crime or identity of the suspect(s) through the “Submit a Tip” option at www.CrimeReports.com or text information to 274-637 (CRIMES). Begin your message with MESAPD. You can also call 480-644-2211 and select option 2. Refer to report number 20132120155.

Surveillance photos of suspect.

Wednesday, August 21, 2013

MPD State of the Department Press Conference

Mayor Scott Smith and Mesa Police Chief Frank Milstead inform the citizens of Mesa about what The Mesa Police Department has accomplished so far in 2013.



Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Fatal Hit & Run Suspect In Custody

 Matthew McIver, 36, was booked this afternoon on Manslaughter and Leaving the Scene of a Fatal Accident for his role in last Tuesday evening's accident at Ray/Sossaman in which 68-year-old Richard Welck was killed. McIver's light silver 2005 Saturn VUE has been impounded as part of the investigation. This is the result of a citizen tip and the diligent efforts of our Vehicular Crimes Unit and is another example of the community partnering with their local law enforcement to impact crime.

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

Death Investigation
On August 20 at 2:21 am, during a detention officer walk-through in our holding facility, a 51-year-old male prisoner was found to be non-responsive while lying in his cell bunk. Mesa Fire responded and pronounced him deceased. A death investigation is being conducted at this time. The subject was in our facility for a warrant arrest and was intoxicated at the time of his arrest.

Monday, August 19, 2013

Exceptional Incident Report

Shoplifting, Aggravated Assault, Theft / Arrest
On August 18 at 9:40 am, officers responded to the Food City at 450 East Southern reference a subject refusing to pay for food that he had eaten. The subject also stole a bag and placed it outside the store. As officers went to take him into custody, he punched the female officer in the face and then punched the male officer on the side of the head; there was a physical fight with the subject and he was eventually taken into custody. Both officers were exposed to the subject's blood during the struggle and both received minor bruises and abrasions. Mesa Fire responded, but no one was transported to hospital. The male subject was booked for two counts of Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer, Theft and Shoplifting.

Friday, August 16, 2013

IACP Honors The Mesa Police Department

We want to thank the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) for honoring us as their featured agency in August for our strides in Social Media. The Mesa Police Department is making every effort to provide our community with the information they want to see about THEIR police department. We welcome ALL suggestions for improvement.

Thursday, August 15, 2013

Safety Tips for Women Going to College

It's back to school for college students. Here are two safety tips to help keep you safe you on campus or while taking in the college night life.

http://www.mesaaz.gov/police/PSA/Audio/COLLEGE%20SAFETY%20TIPS1.mp3

http://www.mesaaz.gov/police/PSA/Audio/COLLEGE%20SAFETY%20TIPS2.mp3

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Victim Notification Program

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) offer a Victim Notification Program which allows eligible victims and witnesses to obtain reliable and timely information regarding a criminal alien's release from custody. Victims and witnesses must register for this program in order to receive notification. More information on the program, including registration information, and other victim services programs offered can be found at http://www.ice.gov/victim-notification/.

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

ABC World News Talks Axon with Chief Milstead

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

On August 13 at 6:40 pm, we responded to the area of 8000 East Ray Road reference a hit and run accident between a bicyclist and a white SUV type vehicle. Upon arrival it was discovered the suspect vehicle had fled the area, leaving behind the victim, whom was pronounced deceased at the scene. An exhaustive area check was negative for the suspect vehicle, which is still outstanding. Our investigation indicates the victim was traveling eastbound when he was struck from behind by the suspect vehicle traveling in the same direction. Evidence at the scene suggests the suspect vehicle is 'possibly' a 2003-2005 Saturn VUE. Next of kin have been notified. We are requesting anyone with information about this accident to please contact us at 480-644-2211, option 2.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

Armed Robbery / Arrest
On August 12 at 4:07 am, officers were dispatched to a report of an armed robbery at the Walmart Neighborhood Market at 8335 E Guadalupe. The suspect was described as a Black male wearing a dark hoody sweatshirt, armed with a machete and that he had fled the store and jumped a wall into the neighborhood. After a brief search, the suspect was located at a residence in the neighborhood and was detained after a brief struggle. A one-on-one identification was done and the suspect began to struggle again. During the struggle, multiple officers were exposed to the suspect's blood on their skin. The suspect, Steven Flores, was taken into custody for Robbery and Aggravated Assault charges.

Friday, August 9, 2013

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

Vehicle Pursuit / Failure to Yield / Arrest
On August 9 at 2:25 am, an officer observed a vehicle northbound on Stapley; the license plate returned with no record and a stop was attempted. The driver, a White female, failed to stop for the officer, who had turned on her lights and sirens. The officer turned off lights/sirens and observed the vehicle head southbound on Harris from Brown. The vehicle was located by another officer in the 1500 block of East Fairfield. The officer recognized the dog that was left in the vehicle as owned by a female he had arrested the night before. Her description was given and she was located in the area. Kelly Randolph was identified by the first officer as the driver and she was booked on driving on a suspended license and failure to yield.

Mesa PD 2013 State of the Department Mid-Year Review










Thursday, August 8, 2013

Do You Lock Your Doors and Roll Up Your Windows When You Pump Gas?


Other areas of the country are seeing 'sliders' who target women's purses at gas stations. We haven't seen this here...yet. It is a crime of opportunity and distraction. Basically, they watch for a woman by herself filling up the gas tank of her car. They pull into the station next to her car, as if to get gas themselves. A 'slider' will then open the door or reach in the open window and grab her purse or any other valuables in the front seat and drive off while the woman is still busy and distracted on the other side of her car pumping gas. Some of these thieves have been caught on surveillance video. Watch HERE and see how they do it. Remember to lock your doors and roll up your windows while you pump gas or while you go into the gas station to make a purchase.

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

Assault / Arrest
On August 7 at 3:18pm, an officer attempted to stop a vehicle, driven by Jose Salazar, in the parking lot at Dobson High School; Jose had been disrupting the school. He was driving in the outer driveway and his vehicle had slowed due to traffic. The officer tapped on the driver's window in an attempt to contact Jose. Jose looked at the officer, then turned his vehicle into him, causing the officer to back-step away from the car and strike the driver's window to avoid falling into the moving car. Jose left the school grounds and was located at Extension and Southern, where he was taken into custody.

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Credit Card Theft from June 7, 2013.

On June 7, fuel cards were stolen from a commercial vehicle. On June 10 and 11, the cards were fraudulently used to purchase gas at two Circle K stores at 809 E Southern and 11 E McKellips. Suspect vehicles include an older white truck pulling a trailer and a newer small white or silver 4-door car. Suspect #1 is described as a Hispanic male, mid 20s, average build, spikey hair. Last seen wearing a white shirt and tan shorts. Suspect #2 is described as a Hispanic male, early to mid 40s, dark hair, mustached. Last seen wearing a white T-shirt over a gray/blue shirt with long sleeves and light colored pants. Suspect #3 is described as a Hispanic male, early to mid 20s, dark hair, mustache, thin shaven beard. Last seen wearing a white T-shirt and dark colored pants. Please submit any information regarding the crime or identity of the suspect(s) through the “Submit a Tip” option at www.CrimeReports.com or text information to 274-637 (CRIMES). Begin your message with MESAPD. You can also call 480-644-2211 and select option 2. Refer to report #20131720173.

 

Residential Burglary and Arson on July 24, 2013


 On July 24 at 12:54 pm, Mesa PD and Mesa Fire responded to a house fire in the area of Signal Butte and Baseline. Upon entry into the home, it appeared the fire had been intentionally set and that the property had been burglarized and several items stolen. It was found that unsuccessful attempts had been made to steal vehicles from the property. A witness reported seeing a small, white SUV crossover parked in the driveway of the property on the morning of the incident. Silent Witness is offering a cash reward up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and/or indictment of the suspect/s of this crime. Please call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (480-948-6377) or visit www.silentwitness.org with information about this crime.














Aggravated Assault on July 31, 2013

Composite drawing of suspect.
On July 31 at 3:42 am, the suspect woke up two victims who were sleeping outside, in the area of Broadway and Alma School, and accused them of a crime. The suspect began stabbing both victims with an unknown object then fled on foot. The suspect is described as a Black male, early 20s, 5'8" tall with a thin build. Last seen wearing a black tank top with "F*** YOU" in white lettering. Please submit any information regarding the crime or identity of the suspect(s) through the “Submit a Tip” option at www.CrimeReports.com or text information to 274-637 (CRIMES). Begin your message with MESAPD. You can also call 480-644-2211 and select option 2. Refer to report #20132110084.

Theft from March 22, 2013

On March 22 at 4:31 pm, the suspect entered the manager's office in the Rancho Grande Market on E Main Street, and stole property. The suspect is described as a white male, 25-35 years old, 5'8" to 5'10" tall, 160-170 lbs. He has short blonde hair, a mustache, beard and tattoos on the inside calf area of both legs. Last seen wearing an ASU ball cap, black shorts, a white striped dress shirt and black sneakers. Please submit any information regarding the crime or identity of the suspect(s) through the “Submit a Tip” option at www.CrimeReports.com or text information to 274-637 (CRIMES). Begin your message with MESAPD. You can also call 480-644-2211 and select option 2. Refer to report #20130810515.

Credit Card Theft from June 2013

On June 5 and June 17, credit cards which had been stolen in separate vehicle burglaries were used fraudulently at several locations including two Walmart locations, 1710 S Greenfield (June 5) and 1955 S Stapley (June 17). The suspects are a male and a female. The male appears to have a large tattoo on his right shin. Surveillance shows the suspects using a newer model white Hyundai Sonata.  Please submit any information regarding the crime or identity of the suspect(s) through the “Submit a Tip” option at www.CrimeReports.com or text information to 274-637 (CRIMES). Begin your message with MESAPD. You can also call 480-644-2211 and select option 2. Refer to report #20131690339.

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

CRIME STATS - JULY

The following are the top 5 calls for service and arrests for each patrol district -- 7/01/2013 through 7/31/2013.

DOBSON
CENTRAL
Call TypeFrequencyCall TypeFrequency
Subjects Disturbing392Subjects Disturbing421
Check Welfare354Check Welfare386
Other Agency Assist210Other Agency Assist197
Suspicious Activity179Suspicious Activity180
Burglary Alarm157Warrant Arrest154




ArrestsFrequencyArrestsFrequency
Rape1Rape1
Robbery2Robbery4
Aggravated Assault16Aggravated Assault10
Breaking & Entering2Breaking & Entering6
Theft53Theft88
GTA2GTA4
Alcohol/DUI69Alcohol/DUI65
Other Assaults33Other Assaults39
Disorderly Conduct25Disorderly Conduct27
Drugs69Drugs44
Fiscal/Forgery4Fiscal/Forgery19
Loitering/Runaway11Loitering/Runaway8
Sex Offenses1Sex Offenses6
Vandalism12Vandalism22
All Other180All Other257




TOTAL480TOTAL600



RED MOUNTAIN
SUPERSTITION
Call TypeFrequencyCall TypeFrequency
Subjects Disturbing395Check Welfare303
Check Welfare360Burglary Alarm260
Burglary Alarm228Subjects Disturbing224
Other Agency Assist205Other Agency Assist196
Suspicious Activity203Suspicious Activity178




ArrestsFrequencyArrestsFrequency
Homicide1Rape1
Robbery2Homicide1
Aggravated Assault12Aggravated Assault3
Breaking & Entering9Breaking & Entering2
Theft67Theft60
Alcohol/DUI55GTA7
Other Assaults54Alcohol/DUI54
Disorderly Conduct25Other Assaults20
Drugs55Disorderly Conduct11
Fiscal/Forgery22Drugs20
Loitering/Runaway30Fiscal/Forgery4
Sex Offenses3Loitering/Runaway9
Vandalism30Sex Offenses2
All Other138Vandalism9


All Other80
TOTAL503TOTAL283

24 Hour Exceptional Incident Report

Assault / Arrest
On August 5 at 9:43pm, officers responded to the 200 block of West 8th Avenue regarding a subject disturbing; Timothy Madrid was threatening a neighbor and causing a disturbance. Officers contacted Madrid, but he was uncooperative and intoxicated. They attempted to take him into custody and he fought with officers, kicking three of them in the process. A Taser was used in order to gain control of Madrid and he was taken into custody.

Shots Fired
On August 5 and 7:10pm in the 1700 block of West Emelita, the passenger of a dark-colored SUV, possibly a Tahoe or Suburban, was seen firing two rounds out of the passenger side of the vehicle. Shell casings were located, but no strike marks were found. Welfare checks were done and no one was found injured. An attempt to locate the vehicle was not successful. There is no suspect information.

Vehicle Pursuit / Arrest
On August 6 at 1:19 am, an officer attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation. The vehicle traveled northbound on Barkley approaching Main Street. The vehicle slowed, but did not stop as the officer activated his overhead emergency lights. The vehicle turned east on Main. The officer activated his siren to alert the driver's attention. The vehicle then pulled into a parking lot in the 1500 block of East Main Street. The vehicle then accelerated south in the parking lot and came to an abrupt stop. The driver quickly ran from the vehicle through the parking lot. The front seat passenger stayed in the vehicle. It was determined that the passenger was a juvenile and was in possession of marijuana. There were indications that the vehicle was stolen; officers were unable to contact the registered owner at the time. In addition to marijuana and drug paraphernalia found in the vehicle, evidence was located that led officers to the residence of the driver. The driver was placed into custody.

Friday, August 2, 2013

There has been a Facebook post disseminated through social media that says people are going door-to-door selling children’s books in an attempt to get information on children in the neighborhood for the purpose of engaging the children in illegal activity. The post says they ask to enter your home because it’s hot and become very pushy.

Mesa has not seen this type of activity. Gilbert PD has addressed this on their website and they have not seen this type of activity either.

A reminder:  Do not let anyone you don’t know into your home.  Do not give out any personal information. Anyone soliciting door-to-door in Mesa MUST have a valid permit issued by the City of Mesa and MUST have it with them to show when asked. Asking to see their permit is usually enough to send them away.  If they won't leave, call the non-emergency number at 480-644-2211, option 2, and report them, whether they have a permit or not.

Additional crime prevention information can be found here.

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Credit Card Theft - March 24, 2013

On March 24, 2013 at 5:00 pm, the suspect entered Walmart at 4505 E McKellips Rd. and purchased goods using the victim's stolen credit card. The suspect is described as a White male.  Please submit any information regarding this crime or the identity of the suspect by anonymous text (text to 274-637; begin your text message with MESAPD) or through our online form found at https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=836&HR=http://cdn.crimereports.com/crimereports-20101221230657.swf. You may also call 480-644-2211, option 2.  Refer to report number20130830605.