News From The
Maricopa County Attorney’s Office

April 30, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has created significant challenges for all of us. We’ve all been faced with circumstances many of us may have never contemplated. Despite social distancing and the stay-at-home order, Maricopa County residents can be sure that public safety is this office’s top priority.

During this time, we have a duty to do our part to reduce the spread of the virus while still holding criminals accountable, ensuring justice for victims and keeping our community safe.

This requires a balanced approach.

Within the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, we handle each criminal case we receive on its own merit—because justice is not one-size-fits-all. When charging a case, we look at the nature of the crime, the criminal history of an offender, and take input from victims; then we balance this information with the need to reduce the number of people going through the criminal justice system at this time. We’re receiving motions from defense counsel seeking to modify release conditions related to COVID-19 and are assessing and responding appropriately to defense counsel on a case-by-case basis.

According to the Sheriff’s office, as of April 24, 5306 inmates were housed in county jail facilities, down from an average daily population of 7,500 prior to COVID-19.

In the last month, MCAO filed 342 cases for those who presented a public risk. We also worked with the Maricopa County Public Defender’s Office to release low-level offenders being held on low bonds who did not possess a risk to the community. This resulted in the possible release of 56 individuals.

For those already convicted of a crime, MCAO worked with Maricopa County Adult Probation and Superior Court to allow approximately 100 inmates housed in Maricopa County Jails to remain at home when Work Furlough and Work Release programs were suspended.

During times of public uncertainty, it is more important than ever that our criminal justice system operates efficiently and fairly. We will weather this public health crisis without abandoning our duty to protect this community. Regardless of our circumstances, my office is dedicated to keeping families safe.

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Keeping Families Safe

Don’t Leave Kids and Pets Behind in a Parked Car

Temperatures have recently reached over 100 degrees and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office wants to remind you to never leave a child or pet in a parked car. In May, we launch our “Don’t Leave Me Behind” Vehicular Heatstroke campaign. You’ll hear public service announcements on the radio and see ads online to help raise awareness that kids and pets die in hot cars.

“Losing a child or a pet in a hot car is a heartbreaking tragedy that is 100% preventable,” said Maricopa County Attorney Allister Adel. “As a community, we can work together to make sure that not one more life is lost. To caregivers, I urge increased vigilance, and to others, if you see a child or animal alone in a parked car, take action!”

Vehicular heatstroke is the number one cause of death in non-collision fatalities for children 14 and younger, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Since 1998, 705 children have died nationwide, 40 of those were in Arizona.

The risk of vehicular heatstroke can occur in air temperatures of 80 degrees or less, and even as low as 57 degrees. Interior temperatures can quickly rise to 125 degrees even with the windows slightly rolled down. More than half of cases occur because a parent or caregiver forget that the child is in the car. Often, this is due to a change in routine, or the adult is not the regular caregiver, such as a grandparent or other relative. While many times it is a terrible mistake, the death will be investigated by law enforcement and charges could be brought if criminal negligence or intent is found.

TIPS FOR PREVENTION

Never leave a child or pet alone in a parked car – even with the windows rolled down or air conditioning on.
Always check the front and back of the vehicle before locking the door and walking away.
Never let children play in an unattended vehicle. Teach them a vehicle is not a play area.
Always lock your vehicle doors and trunk and keep the keys out of a child’s reach. If a child is missing, quickly check all vehicles, including the trunk.
If dropping a child off is not part of your normal routine, take steps to remind yourself that the child is in the car:
- Place a briefcase, purse or something you need to take with you in the back seat next to the car seat so that you’ll always check the back seat before you leave the car.
- Write a note and place it on the dashboard of the car, or set a reminder on your cell phone or calendar. You can also download the Baby Reminder App for iPhones.
- Instruct your daycare provider to call you if your child does not show up.

If you see a child or pet alone in a hot vehicle:

Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
Under Arizona law, it is permissible to rescue a child or pet from a parked car under certain circumstances if you believe their life is in danger:
- First, call 911
- You are allowed to gain access to the car, such as by breaking the window
- You must stay on the scene until authorities arrive

For additional information and safety tips, visit our MCAO Vehicular Heatstroke webpage at MaricopaCountyAttorney.org/VehicularHeatstroke

Internet Safety for your Younger Coworkers

Adults aren’t the only ones susceptible to online threats. With schools closed many students are completing their coursework and spending a significant amount of time online, increasing their chances of seeing something that isn’t intended for them. Parents and caregivers can help manage their child’s online use and teach them about the dangers and risks associated with being online. A family usage plan is a great way to talk about, set boundaries and promote healthy online use.

Learn ways to help manage a child’s online usage »

Don’t Let Your Guard Down:
Tax Scams Are Still in Business

Arizona ranks #19 in the nation for identity theft, down from #10 just a couple of years ago. Better public education and personal awareness have been key, but we all must remain vigilant. The tax season upon us, and scammers are out in force. With the filing deadline extended to July 15, they have more time to trick you into divulging personal information in order to get your money. Here's one trending scam to be aware of:

Scammers may call and claim to be from the IRS, demanding an immediate tax payment. The caller ID may appear to be legitimate and they often will ask for a transfer of funds by gift card or wire transfer. THIS IS A SCAM. The IRS will never call you or show up at your house to demand an immediate payment, and no legitimate creditor will ever ask for payment by gift card or wire transfer.

Learn about other trending scams »

National Crime Victims' Rights Week

Inspiration in the Face of Adversity

Ensuring rights for victims of crime involves every element of our criminal justice system.

It involves victim advocates and prosecutors, but also the law enforcement officers who respond to a scene and the victims themselves. Each year, during National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we honor those who have made a difference for victims and victims who face enormous challenges and emotional hardships to fight for what’s right.

In the last year in Maricopa County we’ve witnessed amazing compassion and bravery from many people, but today we’d like to highlight one victim who expressed great empathy...

Continue reading about an inspirational figure »

MCAO Employees Organize Donations to
Domestic Violence Shelter in the Valley

Spending more time at home puts those in abusive relationships at risk, that’s where support from local domestic violence shelters can make a difference. While shelters receive funding from many sources, they still rely on donations for essential supplies. As we follow the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected” order these essential items are now even more limited. Additionally, due to COVID-19 concerns most shelters aren’t taking in-person or drop-off donations, especially those of used items, for health and safety reasons.

MCAO attorney Maureen Feeney from the Family Violence Bureau saw this need and stepped up to help. “Based on reporting and statistics from around the world, we are anticipating that there will be an increased need for domestic violence services and shelters in the coming weeks and months. Even under normal circumstances, it is hard for victims to remove themselves from unsafe environments, and right now, it is especially challenging, given that there is such a strain on the availability of basic supplies.”

Continue Reading »

Keeping the Wheels of Justice Moving During COVID-19

Charging Ahead and Working Together

Heather Kirka, a Deputy County attorney in the North Central Phoenix Bureau, is responsible for reviewing investigations and making charging decisions. Heather continues to be impressed and in awe of everything that can be accomplished remotely, “It’s pretty surreal to keep the wheels of justice moving while sitting at my dining room table,” says Heather. “I’m grateful to be able to continue to work during this time along with being able to help keep our community safe. I know I am in a fortunate position compared to others. I shouldn’t be, but I’m still constantly amazed at how people pull together in times of crisis. My co-workers and I are all physically far away from each other, yet still very much a team. The courts, the defense bar, and all the county entities have pulled together and gotten creative to try to keep this system moving while making the safety of this community a priority.”Heather and her other co-workers, can relate to a quote from Kristoff in the movie Frozen 2. He often says, “I’m here, what do you need?”and that is exactly what the MCAO team is doing.

Continue Reading »

Collaboration is Key

Trial Bureau West Chief Angela Andrews has been teleworking since late February and acknowledges that her day-to-day routine is constantly changing but she and her team are moving forward with great success. Angela participates in multiple email and video conference communications daily with her chiefs and she keeps that chain of communication moving as she informs her team about the ever-changing court circumstances. Throughout the day charging decisions and plea offers, video conferences and telephone calls occur, and it can be a challenge keeping everyone on the same page. “I am happy to be part of a leadership team where we get to brainstorm ideas on how to handle these unusual circumstances and find the best way to handle them,” remarked Angela. The current situation has taken patience, creativity and in some instances extensive computer knowledge. Although these bumps in the road have been overcome, Angela and her team are looking forward to a return to regular work life as we know it. “I am proud to work in an office, a criminal justice system and a community that learns to band together for the greater good in times of need,” says Angela. Stay healthy Maricopa County, the MCAO is right there with you.

Continue Reading »

Get to Know MCAO

Emily Craiger Brings Spirit of Service and
Collaboration to MCAO Civil Division

The Midwest is known for people with a straightforward, open and no-nonsense style – and in the case of Emily Craiger, one of the incredible women who work for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office (MCAO). Emily demonstrates her midwestern work ethic regularly as a Practice Group Leader in MCAO’s Civil Services Division where she practices an “open door policy” with her team and thrives on the daily collaboration with other attorneys and administrative staff. MCAO’s Civil Services Division provides legal advice and services for elected County Officials, County Departments and Agencies.

Emily grew up in a small town in Illinois and quickly decided to pursue a legal career. She studied at the University of Wisconsin for an undergraduate degree and then went to the University of Iowa where she earned her law degree. While in law school, Emily externed for a federal judge and got experience working on a discrimination lawsuit, which sparked her interest in pursuing a career in employment law, a specialty that has kept her very busy especially during this time of social distancing, with office closures and teleworking.

Discover what else makes Emily a great asset to the MCAO »

Meet Casey Mundell:
MCAO Superhero for Animals

Nearly 70% of households in Maricopa County have pets and Maricopa County Animal Care and Control licenses nearly 400,000 dogs annually. Sadly, not all of these pets end up in loving homes and some are abused and mistreated. When that treatment rises to criminal conduct, that’s when MCAO prosecutor and animal crimefighter Casey Mundell steps in.

Casey is currently assigned to the Special Crimes Bureau in the Organized Crime Division and a large part of his caseload involves animal cruelty cases. Casey’s position is one of the most thankless in the office; requiring strength and confidence to navigate these often-complicated cases involving defenseless animals. These vulnerable victims are often abused by people they trust and they can’t complain or talk about what is happening.

Read more about Casey's commitment to animal justice »

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