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Maricopa County deputies report jump in traffic enforcement after launch of Fountain Hills Squad 5
Summary
Captain Thomas told the Fountain Hills Town Council that a new MCSO community-outreach unit, Squad 5, has increased traffic stops and business contacts while deputies continue to address quality-of-life issues including urban camping.
Captain Thomas, Maricopa County Sheriff's Office, told the Fountain Hills Town Council that a newly created community-outreach unit known as Squad 5 has increased visible enforcement and contact with local businesses.
“Since that last meeting … our squad has already contacted 47 business owners or managers,” Captain Thomas said, describing the work as non‑enforcement outreach: “going out, shaking hands, talking to people, initiating conversations.” He said deputies used the squad at community events, the back-to-school bash and regular patrols at Fountain Park.
Thomas also presented comparative enforcement figures to the council: in a June-to-June comparison he reported 739 traffic stops in 2024 versus 1,729 in 2025, a 134% increase in total traffic stops tied to the unit’s work. He said the increase included more stops that were “criminal in nature” (arrest warrants, driving on suspended licenses) and that the squad has focused on e-bike enforcement and education with the Fountain Hills School District.
Council members asked whether increased citations would lead to safer driving. Councilwoman Gail Earl said she had observed multiple traffic stops on a single commute and asked whether tickets would reduce violations; Thomas replied, “I believe that is one of those visibility things … People see it day after day.” Councilman Rick Watts said he had ridden with a deputy and noted consistency in how individual deputies enforce speed, which he said helps reduce perceptions of unfair enforcement.
On homelessness and “urban camping,” Captain Thomas told the council his March arrival coincided with recurring calls; he said the number of such calls had decreased recently and that deputies respond within the limits of law and individual willingness to accept services. Thomas said deputies have referral options and have transported some people to facilities in the past, but added that many individuals refuse services. When asked, he estimated earlier in his tenure the office had about three such calls per week.
Mayor Jerry Bridal and council members thanked Thomas for the update and for the squad’s community emphasis.
Why it matters: The council heard metrics showing higher enforcement activity tied to a new MCSO schedule and assignment model. The shift affects perceived safety, traffic patterns and how the town coordinates with schools and businesses.
Where this came from: Captain Thomas delivered the quarterly update and answered questions from council. No formal council action was taken on police staffing or budgets at the meeting.
