Mesa Police take part in initiative to combat distracted driving

 Mesa Police To Combat Distracted Driving

The Mesa Police Department will be taking part in a citywide initiative to combat distracted driving.

 As part of the initiative, the Mesa Police Department is working to raise awareness about the importance of attentive and engaged driving, and is focusing on the dangers distracted driving poses to everyone on the road, including other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.

 Arizona law prohibits drivers from using their phone while driving, including writing, sending, or reading electronic messages, using apps or browsing the internet while driving,

• Holding or supporting a wireless device while driving.
• This includes, but is not limited to, your hands and perched on your shoulder.
• Read, write, or send a message via any portable wireless communication device.
• Scroll through social media, watch videos, record videos, or any other use of the device that causes a distraction and requires the use of your body.

The first violation will result in a fine up to $150 and subsequent violations can be as much as $250, plus applicable surcharges.

The Mesa Police Department suggest the following safety tips:

• Turn off electronic devices and put them out of reach before starting to drive.
• Be good role models for young drivers and set a good example. Talk with your teens about responsible driving.
• Speak up when a driver uses an electronic device behind the wheel. Offer to make the call for the driver, so his or her full attention stays on the road.
• Always wear your seat belt.  Seat belts are your best defense against unsafe drivers.
• Be alert for pedestrians and cyclists, especially those who may themselves be distracted.
• If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location. Once you are safely off the road and parked, it is safe to text.
• Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
• Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
• Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination
• Read about how to enable Do Not Disturb While Driving, so you aren't tempted by notifications. 
• Apple iOS- https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208090
• Google Android- https://support.google.com/assistant/answer/10217503?hl=en

For more information, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/distracted-driving#issue-what-distracted-driving

 

You Can't Hide From Our K9

On February 12, 2022, around 4:00 a.m., an adult woman was standing on the Light Rail platform of Alma School/ Main when she was hit from behind by an unknown person and knocked to the ground. This person, later identified as 39-year-old Leon Jones, proceeded to hit the victim in the head and grabbed her neck until she went unconscious.  

When the victim regained consciousness, Jones was on top of her. Jones continued to punch the victim all over her upper body and face, telling her that she would not be able to call the police. Jones forcibly removed the victim’s clothing from the waist up, leaving her breasts exposed. He grabbed her breasts and choked her.

A witness, who is a security guard for a local business, heard the victim screaming and ran to her aid. Upon his arrival, Jones got up and ran away from the scene.

The victim told police that she did not know who Jones was and has never seen him before.

With the help of both the witness and the victim, officers gathered enough detailed information about Jones to start looking for him.

Officers swarmed the area and set up a perimeter. K9 Officer Hasso responded and picked up the scent of Jones. Within 20 minutes, K9 Officer Hasso located Jones hiding under a box behind some bushes in the area and signaled to his handler.

Jones did not follow commands and was shot with one less lethal bean bag round to the buttocks. He was then taken into custody.

Jones was identified by the witness as the person he saw assaulting the victim. He was booked into jail for the following charges and held on $25,000 bond.

 

1 count ARS 13-1304A3- Kidnapping, a class 2 felony.

1 count ARS 13-1404A- Sexual Abuse, a class 5 felony.

1 count ARS 13-1204A4- Aggravated Assault, a class 6 felony.

Leon Jones Mug Shot