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Cochise County sheriff details recent patrols, traffic enforcement and department drug-testing policy
Summary
Sheriff Mark Daniels recounted recent DUI and speeding stops, a Parker Canyon Lake drowning recovery and defended his department’s weekly random drug- and alcohol-testing program as a safety measure for Cochise County law enforcement.
Sheriff Mark Daniels of the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office described a week of patrol activity that included multiple impaired-driving arrests, speeding stops and a drowning recovery at Parker Canyon Lake.
Daniels told KWCD First Watch that deputies recovered the body of a man who capsized while kayaking and extended condolences to the family. He also described an arrest of an impaired older driver and multiple traffic stops that resulted in citations and vehicle tows. "Take me out of these handcuffs," he recounted an arrestee saying; Daniels said, "We didn't put the handcuffs on you, ma'am. You did by making that poor decision to drink and drive."
Daniels also detailed encounters with a speeding driver whose vehicle was towed and a motorist stopped for repeated violations. He warned residents to slow down and cooperate with deputies, saying enforcement is sometimes a last resort but necessary "to protect our communities."
On officer conduct and accountability, Daniels described a random drug- and alcohol-testing program he established after taking office 14 years ago. He said the program applies to sworn deputies, detention officers and dispatchers and runs weekly. "It keeps our office safe," Daniels said, adding the testing is intended to keep employees "honest" and to maintain a safety-essential workforce.
The sheriff also recounted a roadside incident involving an e-bike operating in oncoming traffic and urged caution from both motorists and micromobility riders. He emphasized the importance of community reporting when dangerous behavior is observed.
There was no formal action or policy change announced during the interview. Daniels closed by thanking search-and-rescue teams and urging residents to stay cool and safe during the heat.
The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office did not provide additional data (e.g., exact case numbers or the identity of the drowning victim) during the segment; those details were "not specified."
