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MCSO reports rise in traffic stops after launch of community outreach squad; deputies cite steady low-level crime
Summary
Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Captain Thomas told the council that a recently formed community outreach squad increased traffic enforcement by 134% compared with the same period last year and logged 47 business contacts. He said top call types remain false alarms, citizen assists, suspicious activity and vehicle crashes.
Fountain Hills — Maricopa County Sheriff's Office Captain Thomas delivered a quarterly update to the council Wednesday, saying a newly implemented "Squad 5" community-outreach unit has significantly increased traffic enforcement and contact with local businesses since it began operations.
Thomas said his unit had made 1,729 traffic stops in the reporting period compared with 739 for the same month in 2024, a 134% increase in total stops; 61 of the 2025 stops were for criminal infractions compared with 49 in 2024. He said increases in traffic stops reflect the squad’s visibility and targeted enforcement, and he expects enforcement to reduce dangerous driving over time.
The captain reviewed his top 20 call types for the quarter: false burglar alarms, citizen assists, suspicious activity, court-order violations, vehicle crashes with injuries and criminal damage. He said Squad 5 has made 47 in-person business contacts and has been visible at community events such as Falcon Fest and the back-to-school bash.
Council members asked whether increased enforcement would reduce violations and whether deputies can expand neighborhood patrols. Thomas said neighborhood-posse volunteers continue vacation-watch and patrol duties but that additional neighborhood patrols could be explored if requested.
On urban camping, Thomas said the office saw several repeat calls earlier in the year and that responses vary; he said individuals often decline available services, complicating long-term resolution. He also said MCSO has an educational and outreach library and will coordinate pedestrian and crosswalk safety materials with the town communications director.
Why it matters: The sheriff’s office update shows a tactical shift toward community outreach and visible traffic enforcement, which council members said is intended to reduce unsafe driving and improve public confidence.
