1 hour ago
Published March 18, 2026 at 1:46 PM MST
Local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies are celebrating the results of a months-long drug crackdown called Operation Mechanic. Authorities seized nearly 2,000 pounds of drugs during the operation.
Maricopa County Sheriff Jerry Sheridan said the operation was motivated by concerns that Arizona is being used as a drug corridor to other states.
“There are some ignorant people out there that say, ‘Drugs are a victimless crime.’ I’m here to tell you that drug dealers are a direct threat to our republic and the fabric of our society,” Sheridan stated.
In addition to drugs, authorities confiscated firearms, vehicles, cash, and cryptocurrency. The drugs seized included heroin, marijuana, and spice, a synthetic drug designed to mimic the psychoactive effects of cannabis. Nearly three dozen individuals were arrested.
Attorney General Kris Mayes emphasized her office’s commitment to dismantling organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking.
“We seized nearly 1,750 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 113 pounds of cocaine, over 11 pounds of fentanyl and pills,” Mayes reported.
Tempe officials reported that a crescent moon atop A Mountain, symbolizing one of the holiest months of the year for Muslims, was found destroyed.
In a district with more than 80% nonwhite students, the community is calling for stronger measures to protect schools from potential immigration enforcement activities.
A bill advancing in the Arizona Legislature would require local police to determine the immigration status of arrested individuals. If a person is undocumented, local police would be obligated to notify federal immigration authorities.
Friday marks the final day of a social services event for veterans at the state fairgrounds, which includes satellite courtrooms allowing former military members to clear their records of fines, fees, and other minor legal issues.
The expanded order mandates that services transferring money abroad report data on customers making transactions over $1,000.
