Agencies from across Arizona and throughout the nation stood with us to honor the service and sacrifice of Pilot Robert Skankey and State Trooper Paramedic Hunter Bennett. From the first moments of this tragedy through these final tributes, the unwavering support has brought strength and comfort to their families and to our department. We are deeply grateful for the unity, compassion, and respect shown during this profoundly difficult time. #WeWillNeverForget
🇺🇸 On Armed Forces Day, we recognize the heroes who dedicate their lives to defending our country at home and abroad. Their strength and selflessness remind us of the true meaning of service. We extend our deepest respect and appreciation to all who wear the uniform. #ArmedForcesDay
Detectives with the AZDPS Vehicle Theft Task Force (VTTF) recovered a stolen Nissan GT-R and arrested one suspect in Goodyear on May 12, 2026.
An anonymous tip helped lead investigators to a home near Van Buren St. and Sarival Ave., where detectives located the stolen vehicle with an altered vehicle identification number (VIN).
Goodyear resident Valdemar Quidera Jr., 36, was arrested on charges related to fraud and vehicle theft.
The VTTF extends its appreciation to the Goodyear Police Department Special Assignment Unit for their assistance during the operation.
⚠️ Remember, when buying a vehicle from a private seller, you should always verify the VIN. If anything seems suspicious, don’t hesitate to walk away. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Anyone with information related to auto theft cases can contact the VTTF at [email protected] or the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority.
Read our full news release at the link in our bio. 🔼
Today, we observe National Peace Officers Memorial Day and pay tribute to the officers who made the ultimate sacrifice while upholding their oath to serve and protect. Their dedication to duty and their legacy of service will never be forgotten.
#WeWillNeverForget #NationalPoliceWeek
Several members of AZDPS leadership and Public Information Office personnel attended the 2026 Coalition of DPS Retirees (CDPSR) Annual Conference in Prescott on Wednesday, May 13. The coalition brings together both sworn and professional staff retirees, whose legacies and ongoing support continue to strengthen our agency.
This year’s conference included coalition business, financial updates, and nominations for coalition officers. Lt. Col. Timothy Chung provided Agency Support Division updates, including the Employee Wellness Program, as well as reflections on the Ranger 56 crash and the coalition’s support in the aftermath of that tragedy.
Lt. Col. Jason Leonard provided updates about the Criminal Investigations Division, and attendees also learned about improvements to the radio system from reserve personnel Patty Simpson and Morgan Hoaglin.
Attendees recognized the most senior retiree in attendance, John Ham (Badge #142), who joined the Arizona Highway Patrol on July 1, 1960, and retired on August 1, 1980. We also welcomed the newest retiree, Daniel Collins (Badge #6166), joining the long line of those who have proudly served Arizona.
We're grateful for the dedication and continued involvement of our retiree community.
Learn more about the Coalition of DPS Retirees at cdpsrmembers.org.
AZDPS will join law enforcement agencies nationwide in the “Click It or Ticket” seat belt enforcement campaign from May 18-31, 2026. 🚔
During this period, Highway Patrol state troopers will conduct statewide high-visibility patrols focused on enforcing seat belt and child restraint laws.
With support from AZGOHS, this effort aims to educate motorists and increase compliance with Arizona’s seat belt requirements.
Read our full news release at the link in our bio. đź”—
#ClickItOrTicket #ArriveAliveAZ #BuckleUp
Remembering the fallen & honoring their sacrifice 🕊️
This week is National Police Week. A few of our State Troopers made their way to Washington, D.C., to join law enforcement from across the country in honoring those we’ve lost in the line of duty.
Last night, Troopers participated in the candlelight vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial alongside officers from other Arizona agencies to honor those names being added to the memorial wall. Among them, Apache Junction Police Officer Gabriel Facio (End of Watch 6/8/2025) and Maricopa County Sheriffs Captain Shawn A. Braaten (End of Watch 12/16/2021). We join in honoring their sacrifice and maintaining their legacy for years to come.
#AZDPS #CourteousVigilance #AZTroopers #RememberTheFallen #PoliceWeek2026
From the roads to the skies, AZDPS troopers proudly serve and protect Arizona every day. Our April statistics offer a look into ongoing efforts to keep the roads safe, support statewide operations, and collaborate with our partners to prevent crime and promote safety. While numbers are only part of the story, they reflect the commitment our troopers bring to every call, investigation, and mission in service to the people of Arizona.
#CourteousVigilance #AZTroopers
Today marks the start of National Police Week. This week serves as a time to honor the peace officers who gave their lives in the line of duty and to stand with the families, colleagues, and communities who carry on their legacy.
Learn more about National Police Week programs and events: nleomf.org/events
Troopers intercept a significant Fentanyl load during a traffic stop đźš“
GILA BEND, AZ - On May 2, 2026, a Highway Patrol State Trooper stopped a vehicle on I-8 near Gila Bend for a civil traffic violation.
During the stop, the responding Trooper observed indicators consistent with criminal activity seen during #OperationDesertGuardian details conducted throughout the state. Troopers observed a partially torn bag containing several blue pills in plain view in the back seat of the vehicle. Further investigation led to the discovery of approximately 95.7 pounds of suspected fentanyl pills and 35.4 pounds of suspected fentanyl powder.
With help from the AZDPS Pinal Narcotics Unit, Troopers seized a total of approximately 131 pounds of suspected fentanyl. The driver was arrested and booked into the Maricopa County Jail on charges of possession and transportation of a narcotic drug for sale.
#ODG details focus on intercepting drug, human, and illegal weapons trafficking throughout the state.
-- Read the full press release on the AZDPS website --
#AZDPS #AZTroopers #CourteousVigilance
The Arizona Commercial Vehicle Safety Partnership (ACVSP) will take part in this year’s “International Roadcheck,” a three-day commercial vehicle inspection and enforcement effort happening May 12–14, 2026, along I-17 and I-40 in northern Arizona.
ACVSP includes AZDPS Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Bureau troopers and ADOT Enforcement and Compliance Division officers.
Enforcement zones will cover I-17 from McGuireville to Flagstaff and I-40 from Flagstaff to the Parks rest areas, along with ports of entry in northern Arizona.
International Roadcheck is an annual inspection and enforcement operation led by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. Inspectors across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. will conduct commercial motor vehicle and driver inspections at weigh/inspection stations, designated inspection areas, and along roadways to ensure regulatory compliance.
This year’s focus areas include cargo securement and electronic logging device (ELD) tampering and falsifications.
Drivers and carriers are encouraged to prepare by conducting pre trip inspections, ensuring documentation is in order, and addressing any mechanical issues before getting on the road.
The mission of the Arizona Commercial Vehicle Safety Partnership is to ensure safe, secure, and efficient commercial transport across Arizona.
#InternationalRoadcheck #AZTroopers #CourteousVigilance
On April 30, 2026, an AZDPS Canine District trooper seized an estimated 169 pounds of methamphetamine during a traffic stop east of Yuma. Two suspects were arrested on felony charges, including transportation of a dangerous drug.
Outstanding work by our Canine District troopers, with support from @azdps_highwaypatrol District Four and the Yuma Narcotics Squad. Their vigilance continues to disrupt criminal activity and keep Arizona communities safe.
Thank you to our colleagues at the DEA Yuma Field Office for their support and assistance in this investigation.
#CourteousVIgilance #AZTroopers
