Grand Canyon Times

The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) and the Cochise County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) have reported initial success in their joint initiative, Operation Desert Guardian. This operation is focused on disrupting illegal drug transportation and criminal activities in Cochise County.

Throughout the operation, state troopers and deputies conducted 114 traffic stops. These efforts resulted in nine misdemeanor arrests, three felony arrests, the recovery of two stolen vehicles, and the seizure of 4.5 grams of methamphetamine. These outcomes demonstrate the effectiveness of cooperative law enforcement actions against drug trafficking and related crimes.

"The success of Operation Desert Guardian is a testament to the power of partnership in law enforcement," stated Colonel Jeffrey Glover, Director of AZDPS. "By working closely with the Cochise County Sheriff's Office, we have made significant strides in disrupting the flow of dangerous drugs and ensuring the safety of our communities. Our commitment to this mission remains unwavering."

Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration: "The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office is proud to partner with our state in the prevention and enforcement of those that serve to transport, distribute, and sell illicit drugs within our communities. It is no secret that transnational criminal cartels are exploiting our country by producing and sending these deadly drugs into our country that kill thousands of Americans every year. This complementary effort by law enforcement and our state to combat these criminals is long overdue. I am proud to be an active partner regarding the 'War on Drugs' and identify, arrest, and prosecute those criminals that intentionally harm our citizens."

The progress achieved through Operation Desert Guardian highlights the value of ongoing partnerships between state and local law enforcement agencies. Both AZDPS and CCSO are dedicated to improving public safety through proactive enforcement measures and community involvement.

For further information about this operation or to report suspicious activity, contact AZDPS or CCSO.