AHPA SUCCESS! Overtime Bill Signed Info Law May 8, 2013 by Governor Brewer

After hard work from our lobbyist, Kelsey Lundy, President Jimmy Chavez and many civilian members, AHPA is happy to report that H.B. 2303 was signed into law by Governor Janice Brewer May 8th, 2013. The law now expands overtime for law enforcement personnel that directly assist police officers. Read more about the new law and [...]

AHPA Legislative News – May 21st, 2013 Update

Legislative news: With budget negotiations appearing to move forward, AHPA is making sure the agency receives adequate appropriation for the increased employer contributions into the retirement system.  The agency will need $6.3 million in the next fiscal year to account for those increases.  If not fully funded, the agency would likely have to impose a [...]

President’s Message: May 2013

As we all know by now, May 6th was a troubling day for the agency.  On the very day we honored the lives of 28 DPS Officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, another of our brothers was taken from us as he patrolled the highway. The circumstances that took the life of Officer Tim [...]

AHPA Mourns the Loss of DPS Officer Tim Huffman

The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) members are saddened to hear the loss of Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officer Tim Huffman.  The nearly fifteen (15) year veteran was killed in the line of duty after a traffic collision near Wellton on May 6th, 2013. “Officer Huffman was very quiet, however, everyone knew how much [...]

May 6th, 2013: AHPA to Honor 28 DPS Officers Killed in Line of Duty with Memorial Ceremony

AHPA to Honor 28 DPS Officers Killed in Line of Duty with Memorial Ceremony Annual event will take place on Monday, May 6th (Phoenix, AZ) –The men and women of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) will pay their respects to the 28 Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers who have been killed in [...]

Coming soon! DPS/AHPA Christmas Ornament

It is Arizona Highway Patrol Association’s honor to bring you and your family this Department of Public Safety Christmas ornament.  The commemorative piece not alone celebrates all the dedicated men and women at the DPS, but additionally reminds the fallen officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice.  May this token remind you of all the heroes [...]

AHPA APRIL 2013 MINUTES

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD: AHPA APRIL 2013 MINUTES WORD DOC AHPA APRIL 2013 MINUTES PDF

AHPA MARCH 2013 MINUTES

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AHPA FEB 2013 MINUTES

Click here for: AHPA FEBRUARY 2013 MINUTES (WORD DOC) AHPA FEBRUARY 2013 MINUTES PDF

Force Science News: Dramatic shooting of a car thief…and persistent Hollywood myths

Dramatic shooting of a car thief…and persistent Hollywood myths Note: The staff at the Force Science Institute of late has noticed “a definite uptick” in the number of inquiries being received regarding shooting at moving vehicles, according to operations vice president Scott Buhrmaster. From their various field locations, some Force Science instructors are reporting a [...]

AHPA VP Sends Letter Supporting District 18 Representatives

Dear District 18 residents, Public safety is not a partisan issue, as it is the most important function of government. Few elected officials understand this better than Representative Bob Robson, Representative Jeff Dial and Senator John McComish. I work with the dedicated and professional men and women of the Arizona Department of Public Safety.  I, [...]

Governor Brewer Signs into Law Public Safety Spousal Benefits Bill – H.B. 2204; Families of fallen officers & firefighters not forgotten

Governor Brewer Signs into Law Public Safety Spousal Benefits Bill – H.B. 2204 Families of fallen officers & firefighters not forgotten House Bill 2204 helps to continue health care benefits to families that have lost a police officer, firefighter, or corrections officer in the line of duty.  Sgt. Jimmy Chavez, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association [...]

AHPA Comfort Bear Toy Drive

Highway Patrol Comfort Bear Toy Drive to help children involved in tragedies Maricopa County, AZ – Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) kicks off their yearly Comfort Bear Toy Drive from March 11, 2013 through April 7, 2013 to help console kids impacted by tragedy.   AHPA is asking those willing to help by dropping off a [...]

AHPA Call-to-Action: Anti-Union Bills

Several bills in the legislature will have a significant impact on AHPA and its members.  These bills, referred to as “anti-union” bills, seek to diminish your ability to belong to AHPA.  The Association needs your help and is asking you to email your respective legislator.  Attached to this message are two examples that can be [...]

AHPA Dues Change: Money back in your pocket!

Money back in your pocket! The Arizona Highway Patrols Association steps up for membership.  The AHPA is proud to announce their recent decision to reduce active membership dues. For the past several years, DPS employees have been asked to do more with less.  It is only reasonable that AHPA evaluate ways to conduct business on [...]

AHPA Responds to Gov. Brewer’s Budget Plan : Proposal does not include pay increase for DPS employees

As most of you know, Governor Janice Brewer introduced her 2014-1015 state budget proposal in late January. (Read Governor Brewer’s budget proposal here: http://azgovernor.gov/dms/upload/PR_011813_Budget.pdf) After clarification and further information, AHPA learned that the budge proposal did not include the salary adjustment requested by the agency back in October. That request was for $10.8 million per [...]

AHPA Supports Spousal Benefits Bill – H.B. 2204; Families of fallen officers & firefighters not forgotten

AHPA Supports Spousal Benefits Bill – H.B. 2204 Families of fallen officers & firefighters not forgotten House Bill 2204 helps clarify language that provides health care benefits to families that have lost a police officer or firefighters in the line of duty.  Sgt. Jimmy Chavez, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) and Arizona Police Association [...]

The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation: April 23-26, 2013

John E. Reid & Associates, Inc. World Leader in Interviewing and Interrogation Training The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation April 23 – 26, 2013 Mesa AZ 8:00 am – 3:00 pm (first day registration 7:45 am) Cosponsor and Location Mesa Police Department 3260 N. 40th Street 4 Day Combined 3 Day Seminar 1 Day [...]

AHPA January 2013 Minutes

Click here for the AHPA’s January Minutes: AHPA January 2013 Minutes Word Document AHPA January 2013 Minutes PDF

17th Annual Bob Martin/Mark Brown Memorial Mile Clean Up Feb. 16th

Bob Martin/Mark Brown 17th Annual Memorial Mile Clean Up February 16, 2013 The annual Bob Martin Memorial Highway Cleanup is scheduled for Saturday February 16, 2013.  The event commemorates Department of Public Safety Officer Robert K. Martin #474 who gave his life in the line of duty on August 15, 1995.  Officer Martin had conducted [...]

COPS Walk Southwest 2013 on February 23 and 24

The Concerns of Police Survivors is holding their COPS Walk Southwest 2013 on February 23 and 24 (Saturday/Sunday)and are in desperate need of walkers for this event. The registration deadline is February 1 (there is no fee to register). Go to http://www.nationalcops.org/copswalksw.htm to learn more about the walk and how you can register. Marie Dryer, [...]

ASU Basketball Benefiting AHPA – Jan. 26th

Arizona Highway Patrol recognizes heroes involved in a recent cancelled Amber Alert (Tempe, Arizona) – It was Public Safety Day during Arizona State University’s basketball game on January 26th, where first responders received discounted tickets and were recognized during the game.  Firefighters and Highway Patrol officers faced-off in a three point shoot-out, where AHPA outscored [...]

AHPA Secretary Featured in Latino Perspectives January 2013 Issue

Agency, Title: Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZ DPS), Police Communication Dispatcher Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA), Recording Secretary Years of service: (please list first assignment): I have been in law enforcement for 10 years and have spent the last five and a half years at AZ DPS.  I have also been serving as the [...]

January 2013 President’s Message

Happy New Year… This is the time of year when we take the occasion to pause and reflect upon the year that was; the year to come; and to resolve to find ways to better ourselves and those around us. And with the Connecticut tragedy still so fresh in our minds, we are this year [...]

AHPA December 2012 Meeting Minutes

AHPA December 2012 Meeting Minutes Click to download: AHPA December 2012 Meeting Minutes Word Doc AHPA December 2012 Meeting Minutes PDF

AHPA November 2012 Meeting Minutes

AHPA November 2012 Meeting Minutes Click here to download: AHPA November 2012 Meeting Minutes Word Doc AHPA November 2012 Meeting Minutes PDF

AHPA October 2012 Meeting Minutes

AHPA October 2012 Meeting Minutes Click here to download: AHPA October 2012 Meeting Minutes Word Doc AHPA October 2012 Meeting Minutes PDF

Phoenix Suns Law Enforcement Appreciation Night – Jan 2nd

The Phoenix Suns invite all public safety officers from city, county, state and federal agencies to come out to US Airways Center to celebrate our first responders. This special ticket package is available to all sworn and non-sworn employees of any law enforcement, fire, EMT or DHS agency, their family members, friends and supporters. If [...]

AHPA’s 19th Annual Christmas Bear Hospital Visits – 2012

19th Annual Highway Patrol Christmas Bear Program Visits Arizona Hospitals Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) members are celebrating its 19th year of bringing Christmas joy to children receiving treatment in various medical centers across the state.  These dedicated Department of Public Safety (DPS) employees will be delivering bears and holiday cheer from December 18th through [...]

IPEM for the Captain Promotional Process

With the start of a promotional process for Captain, the agency is using the Individual Promotional Evaluation Matrix (IPEM).  This process was used in the recent Sergeant promotional process.  As stated, the IPEM is an assessment tool “designed to objectively evaluate an individual candidate’s verifiable Experience, Education, and Training as they relate to promotional opportunities.”  [...]

DPS Budget/Pay Plan

A few months ago, the Department completed and submitted its FY 2014 and 2015 budget requests to the Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning and Budgeting (OSPB).  The request included the annual salary survey, which shows the average DPS salary would require a 20.5% increase to equal the market. The Department’s priority within the budget request [...]

REMEMBRANCE OF OUR FALLEN COMRADE, SGT TAPIA

Come and join us on January 12th, 2013 to remember Sgt. Manny Tapia #1409.  We will first start with a burrito breakfast on Rio Rico Drive, be shuttled onto Interstate 19 for the Adopt-A-Highway cleanup and from there we will meet at his Memorial Site on North Grand Avenue for a small service.  Afterwards, we [...]

PSPRS’ AHPA Meeting Presentation

Jim Hacking, Administrator of the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS), attended AHPA’s November 2012 meeting.  Mr. Hacking presented the following reports: Public Safety and Corrections Officer Local Board Secretaries and Finance Departments 2012 Actuary Reports FY 2012 Financial Report 2012 System Consolidated Reports 2012 Actuarial Reports By Employer From the links above, members can [...]

Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation: Jan 29-Feb 1, 2013

January 29 – February 1, 2013 Phoenix AZ Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel 8:30 am – 3:30 pm (first day registration 8:00 am) More information at: www.reid.com You Will Learn How to assess the credibility of statements. How to structure the interview to maximize the flow of information. How to use behavior provoking questions in the [...]

AHPA 29th Annual Raffle

Click here to download the informational PDF Flier: AHPA 2012 RAFFLE 11X17 POSTER/INFO FLIER

AHPA Scholarship Recipient Visits Members

Vaughn E. Perkins III, D.M.D., son of Ret. Vaughn Perkins, Jr., visited AHPA members in order to thank everyone for the scholarship he received from the association. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity.  I am living proof that it works and so thankful for the opportunity.  I can’t express enough how grateful I am,” said [...]

Highway Patrol: Law reminders & driving tips to stay safe over Thanksgiving Holiday

The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) has some advice for all drivers over the Thanksgiving holiday- BE CAREFUL!  According to the Department of Public Safety (DPS), one crash occurs every five seconds.  Because of budget cuts and less overtime, fewer officers are on the road responding to increased holiday calls for service. “Historically, injury and [...]

How did AHPA endorsed candidates do in the election?

Did you know that 95% of the candidates AHPA endorsed won their election?  AHPA thanks all of our PAC contributors for supporting those candidates that support public safety.  Our endorsements continue to be influential!  Read below the results, as of November 14th. *************************************** Arizona Highway Patrol Association 2012 Candidate Endorsements General Election (winning candidates are [...]

AHPA 2012 Candidate Endorsements-General Election

The Arizona Highway Patrol Association has endorsed numerous candidates running for the Arizona Legislature, U.S. Congress and local offices that have shown to be strong supporters of public safety.  Below is a list of all the candidates that have been endorsed by the AHPA.  We have only listed the districts in which the AHPA has [...]

AHPA November Meeting Date Changed – Nov. 20th!

Due to Thanksgiving, AHPA has changed the next general membership meeting to November 20th, 2012.  Same location and start time! 9am Phoenix Mountain Preserve 1431 E Dunlap Ave Phoenix, AZ 85020

DPS 2014 BUDGET REQUEST

2014 DPS Budget Request Quick Reference PDF 2014 DPS Budget Request Quick Reference WORD DOC

New Study: Tasers & deaths: Not a simple relationship, researchers argue

A research team that includes members with law enforcement experience has taken the most comprehensive look yet at the circumstances surrounding Taser deployments where suspects end up dying. The findings “demonstrate the complexity of these incidents,” the researchers report, citing drug use and mental illness, persistent suspect resistance, and a “wide array of force options [...]

September 2012 Meeting Minutes

CLICK HERE TO READ THE WORD DOCUMENT: AHPA September 2012 Minutes CLICK HERE TO READ THE PDF: AHPA September 2012 Minutes

Open Enrollment NOW – Supplemental Life Insurance

Active and retired members are eligible for supplemental life insurance that can be CHEAPER than what the State of Arizona can provide.  Open enrollment (from the State of Arizona) has started and members must act now in order to compare benefits.  You have the ability to lock in a rate with a different plan that [...]

New Hire & Gap Retirement Health Insurance – “A full coverage solution to a short-term insurance gap!”

New Hire & Gap Retirement Health Insurance “A full coverage solution to a short-term insurance gap!” AHPA is pleased to announce a new benefit for members and retirees.  Health insurance is now available for those transitioning to a new job with DPS or retirees that have not reached the age of 65.  Short-term policies can [...]

AHPA Attends National Troopers Coalition Conference – New Orleans, Louisiana

Who said highway patrol does not know how to deal with natural disaster?  In the mist of Hurricane Isaac, the National Troopers Coalition (NTC) said “the show must go on” and hosted the national conference in New Orleans, Louisiana. Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu welcomed the group to New Orleans and personally thanked Troopers from [...]

AHPA Attends Harvard Law School Leadership Seminar

The AHPA President and Vice President recently attended the Law Enforcement Associations Leadership Seminar at Harvard Law School’s Labor and Worklife Program (www.law.harvard.edu/programs/lwp). The prestigious conference is held annually, but the first that focused on state level law enforcement issues.  Attendees included representatives from across the country and Canada. The week conference had some of [...]

August 2012 AHPA Meeting Minutes

Click here to read: AHPA August 2012 Minutes PDF AHPA August 2012 Minutes Word Doc

AHPA Membership Message – September 2012

As the summer is a great time for many to take a hiatus, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) has been conducting “business as usual” for its members.   While some issues come up and are solved quickly, others have prolonging obstacles with solutions in sight. For the past two years, DPS Officers have noticed an [...]

Make Your Vote Count, August 28

Make Your Vote Count AHPA Endorsements Make your vote count and go out and vote in the primary elections next Tuesday, August 28th.  The Arizona Highway Patrol Association has endorsed numerous candidates running for the Arizona Legislature, U.S. Congress and local offices that have shown to be strong supporters of public safety.  In many Congressional [...]

Trauma via 911: the forgotten first responders

Dispatchers can be the forgotten first responders when it comes to departmental concerns about the psychological well-being of service personnel. Yet they experience many of the same traumatic reactions to critical incidents and cumulative stress as police officers. Dr. Michelle Lilly and research associate Heather Pierce of Northern Illinois University have conducted what is believed [...]

40 Years Later AHPA Remembers DPS Officer Alan Hansen: E.O.W. 7/19/73

CLICK HERE TO READ THE KPHO CBS 5 REPORT Thank you to AHPA members Gregg Girard and Steve Lump for remembering DPS’ hero. If the general public wants to be a part of the creation and preservation of an AHPA fallen officer memorial marker, one is encouraged to become an associate member or donate to [...]

July 2012 Meeting Minutes

Click the links below the read: AHPA July 2012 Meeting Minutes WORD DOC AHPA July 2012 Meeting Minutes PDF

AHPA Donates to Operation 10-90: Serving Those Who Serve

The Arizona Highway Patrol Association, with its members, are proud to support “Operation 10-90″.  This new program was developed to support and express gratitude to deployed DPS employees and family members. As of today, DPS has 14 employees serving our country through military efforts.  These heroes are positioned all around the world; some deployed multiple [...]

Excited Delirium Syndrome (ExDS) PowerPoint presentations

Excited Delirium Syndrome (ExDS) PowerPoint presentations The PPT includes a voiceover adding interesting information to the bullet points and videos.  Dr. Antevy and asked if I could forward this information.  He said, “I am convinced that the prevention of deaths in the field will only be accomplished if all agencies work together. Truthfully I feel [...]

AZ Highway Patrol Association Endorses Amanda Aguirre (D) for Congress

AZ Highway Patrol Association Endorses Amanda Aguirre (D) for Congress PHOENIX, AZ—Congressional Candidate Sen. Amanda Aguirre was endorsed by the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) today.  Sen. Aguirre is a Democrat running in District 3 for a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. The AHPA is proud to endorse former State Senator Amanda Aguirre [...]

AHPA Hosts Matt Salmon Fundraiser – August 1

Read more about Matt Salmon’s Campaign for Congressional District 5 from his website: http://www.salmonforcongress.com or CLICK HERE TO READ AHPA’S ENDORSEMENT

Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation: Aug 20-23 Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation:

The Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation August 20 – 23, 2012 Gilbert AZ Seville Golf & Country Club 3 Day Interview and Interrogation Seminar and/or 1 Day Advanced You Will Learn… How to assess the credibility of statements How to structure the interview to maximize the flow of information How to use behavior provoking [...]

Arizona Highway Patrol Association Charities Receives Walmart Award

Thanks to AHPA member, Bryan Jackson, a Volunteerism Always Pays “VAP” grant was recently awarded to ARIZONA HIGHWAY PATROL ASSOCIATION CHARITIES. The VAP program awarded a $250 grant when an associate, like Bryan, volunteers at least 25 hours with an eligible organization. A check for $250 was issued on 07/19/2012 to AHPA Charities!  Our organization [...]

KTAR: Remaining portion of SB 1070 takes effect soon (APA Comments)

CLICK HERE TO READ THE ARTICLE Arizona Police Association comments on this report.

July 2012 President’s Message

Dear AHPA members, For the past several years, it seems AHPA goes a full twelve rounds with the Arizona Legislature or the agency.   Employees fight to create safe, productive work environments, while decision-makers only seem to be steadfast for the bottom-line on a budget line item.  Though our organization and members have been prosperous in [...]

Force Science: What Force Science still teaches about BART case, despite court ruling

In the nation’s highest-profile case of weapons confusion, the California Court of Appeal has ruled that a jury verdict of involuntary manslaughter was reasonable and a two-year prison sentence was warranted for former officer Johannes Mehserle, who swore that he thought he was deploying his Taser when he actually drew his pistol and fatally shot [...]

JUNE 2012 MINUTES

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AHPA’S JUNE 2012 MEETING MINUTES (WORD DOC) CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AHPA’S JUNE 2012 MEETING MINUTES PDF

AHPA Proudly Sponsors G.R.E.A.T. Graduation

READ THE LAKE HAVASU NEWS ARTICLE HERE On May 16, 2012, Detective David Stopke of the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s, State Gang Task Force, Mohave County G.II.T.E.M. Unit held a graduation ceremony for 130 students who successfully completed the elementary and middle school components of the G.R.E.A.T. (Gang Resistance Education And Training) curriculum. The [...]

New study: Detecting deception via Cognitive Interviewing

New study: Detecting deception via Cognitive Interviewing The Cognitive Interviewing process that can enhance the memories of witnesses and involved officers during use-of-force investigations has now been modified to make it a useful tool for also detecting possible deception when questioning suspects about crimes. The modified protocol includes 2 unexpected requests that seem especially effective [...]

AHPA President Featured in Latino Perspectives

AHPA President Jimmy Chavez was featured in June 2012′s edition of Latino Perspectives.  Read the article here: “Those that Serve”  with AHPA President Jimmy Chavez – Latino Perspective June 2012

AHPA Endorses Matt Salmon for Congressional District 5

RELEASE SEND OUT BY SALMON’S CAMPAIGN May 23, 2012 Law Enforcement Backs Matt Salmon for Congress Receives endorsements from state and municipal police associations EAST VALLEY – Former Congressman and candidate for Arizona’s 5th congressional district Matt Salmon today announced the endorsements from the following statewide and local law enforcement associations: Arizona Police Association Arizona [...]

Personnel Reform Signed- Gov. Brewer’s Release HERE

Governor Jan Brewer Signs Sweeping Personnel Reform into Law Package Updates Personnel Rules for State Workforce, Mirrors Private Sector CLICK HERE TO READ THE OFFICIAL PDF RELEASE PHOENIX – Governor Jan Brewer today signed into law a historic reform governing the State workforce, modernizing the way in which State government manages, hires and fires employees. [...]

APRIL 2012 MINUTES

CLICK HERE TO READ AHPA April 2012 MINUTES – WORD DOCUMENT CLICK HERE TO READ AHPA April 2012 MINUTES – PDF

14th Annual AHPA Fallen Officer Memorial

AHPA to Honor 28 DPS Officers Killed in Line of Duty with Memorial Ceremony 14th Annual event – Monday, May 7th (Phoenix, AZ) –The men and women of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) will pay their respects to the 28 Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers who have been killed in the line [...]

CBS KPHO: State Agencies Absorbing Workload Despite Open Positions

PHOENIX (CBS5) – According to Jimmy Chavez, the president of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association, the Department of Public Safety hasn’t hired a new officer since 2008. “We’ve gone about four years since we put a new officer through the Academy,” Chavez said. Chavez said DPS is down at least 100 officers. “Plain and simple, [...]

“We are DPS” – AHPA President’s Editorial

Dear Police Supporter, We love this great state.  We love our profession.  We feel supported by the citizens we serve. However, Arizona is becoming the next victim of a nationwide movement.  Out-of-state and foreign entities are dictating what type of police services local residents should receive. Police employees are in disbelief that big, wealthy corporations [...]

Should civilian shooters get the same treatment as OIS survivors?

Should civilian shooters get the same treatment as OIS survivors? Ray Meyer, a retired sergeant of the California Highway Patrol, emailed this note to Force Science News: Don’t jump to conclusions on what I believe, but here’s a question. We always treat the officer involved in an OIS as if it’s a good shooting. Assume [...]

%$!# the pain: Latest research on the benefit of foul language

%$!# the pain: Latest research on the benefit of foul language Swearing can help you better tolerate physical pain, provided you don’t do much of it in your ordinary daily life. That conclusion comes from a British research team reporting its latest findings on the analgesic benefit of cussing in The Journal of Pain, the [...]

AELE: Beware the legal risks of spreading gory scene photos

AELE: Beware the legal risks of spreading gory scene photos You wouldn’t do it, but let’s say an officer of your acquaintance uses his personal cellphone camera to record the gore of a fatal traffic smashup and emails the bloody photos to some buddies and from there they eventually get posted forever on the internet. [...]

New study confirms health/safety dangers of LEOs’ poor sleep

New study confirms health/safety dangers of LEOs’ poor sleep Union reps, trainers, and human behavior experts who have been campaigning to get police fatigue recognized and addressed as a critical professional and public safety problem have been given an armory of ammunition for their battle by a comprehensive and complex new study of cops and [...]

Is prone positioning really riskier for suspects? No, says new study

Is prone positioning really riskier for suspects? No, says new study An exaggeration of the sudden in-custody death problem is generating “persecution and prosecution” of LEOs and their agencies and is resulting in “reactionary changes in policy and procedure that may well be based in conjecture rather than fact,” according to new findings by a [...]

AELE analysis: When force against the mentally disturbed is justified

AELE analysis: When force against the mentally disturbed is justified The scenario is one that’s often in the headlines and ultimately in the courts: A distraught and frightened family calls for help in controlling a mentally disturbed or suicidal relative. When cops respond, the confrontation escalates and the subject ends up injured or dead from [...]

Force Science: Study on Vascular Neck Restraint

Vascular neck restraint: Reprieve for a bum-rapped technique For the first time, a scientific research team has used modern technology to confirm just how a vascular neck restraint works to produce unconsciousness. The findings emphatically refute assertions that this valuable control technique is inherently dangerous and potentially lethal. “With the majority of subjects [in the [...]

MARCH 2012 MINUTES

CLICK HERE TO READ AHPA March 2012 MINUTES – WORD DOCUMENT CLICK HERE TO READ AHPA March 2012 MINUTES – PDF

“We are DPS” – Members Get Active!

A striker amendment to HB 2571 was introduced in efforts to reform due process within the various personnel systems within the state, including the Law Enforcement Merit System Council (LEMCS).  The proposed language would remove DPS civilian employees from LEMCS and put them into the newly modified state personnel system.  AHPA and its members are [...]

“We are DPS”: Highway Patrol employees start educational campaign for legislators and the public

Per Governor Brewer, the legislature is hearing House Bill 2571 in efforts to reform due process for state employees.  During recent Senate and House Committees, the members of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) heard misconceptions about the similarities between how private business and police operate.  In response, AHPA members and their families are rolling [...]

Personnel reform update 3/14/2012

Today, an amendment was offered to HB2571 as the bill was submitted to the House Committee of the Whole. The main changes within the amendment are as follows: LEMSC would remain in statute and covering only sworn employees at DPS. LEMSC authority would be altered. To quote the updated information posted on the DPS Intranet [...]

February 2012 Minutes

Click here to download the Word document: AHPA February 2012 Minutes WORD Click here to download the PDF document: AHPA February 2012 Minutes PDF

Jan 2012 Minutes

Click here to download the Word Document of AHPA Jan 2012 Minutes Word Document Click here to download the PDF of AHPA Jan 2012 Minutes PDF

President’s Message: Personnel Reform Update

On Tuesday (March 6th), I participated in a stakeholders meeting with the Governor’s office regarding personnel reform (HB 2571).  I was joined by fellow law enforcement and fire associations, legislative liaisons, Representatives Justin Olson (sponsor of the bill) and Justin Pierce, Director Halliday and the Governor’s staff to discuss issues with the current state of [...]

Personnel Reform Update 3/9/12

On Tuesday March 6th, I participated in a stakeholders meeting with the Governor’s office regarding personnel reform (HB 2571). I was joined by fellow law enforcement and fire associations, legislative liaisons, Representatives Justin Olson (sponsor of the bill) and Justin Pierce, Director Halliday and the Governor’s staff to discuss issues with the current state of [...]

AHPA on Arizona Public Media – Personnel Reform

Watch AHPA’s President, Jimmy Chavez, on Arizona Public Media speaking about Personnel Reform. Download “Arizona Week 03/02/2012″as Widescreen HRHD (960×544) <object width=”480″ height=”282″ data=”http://media.azpm.org/ondemand/swf/fp3/flowplayer.commercial-3.1.5.swf” type=”application/x-shockwave-flash”><param name=”movie” value=”http://media.azpm.org/ondemand/swf/fp3/flowplayer.commercial-3.1.5.swf” /><param name=”allowfullscreen” value=”true” /><param name=”allowscriptaccess” value=”always” /><param name=”flashvars” value=’config={“width”:617,”height”:372,”key”:”#$c3492e48e9da60b0777″,”clip”:{“url”:”mp4:master/video/2012/3/2/hrhd/030212_Arizona_Week_960x544.mp4″,”provider”:”rtmpvod”,”scaling”:”fit”,”autoPlay”:false},”canvas”:{“backgroundImage”:”http://media.azpm.org/master/swf/fp3/clicktoplay480.gif”},”plugins”:{“rtmpvod”:{“url”:”http://media.azpm.org/ondemand/swf/fp3/flowplayer.rtmp-3.1.3.swf”,”netConnectionUrl”:”rtmp://fms.azpm.org/vod/”},”controls”:{“url”:”http://media.azpm.org/ondemand/swf/fp3/flowplayer.controls-3.1.5.swf”,”bufferGradient”:”none”,”timeBgColor”:”#666666″,”buttonOverColor”:”#728B94″,”borderRadius”:”0px”,”sliderColor”:”#000000″,”progressGradient”:”medium”,”buttonColor”:”#6E95BE”,”sliderGradient”:”none”,”durationColor”:”#ffffff”,”tooltipColor”:”#6E95BE”,”progressColor”:”#112233″,”bufferColor”:”#666666″,”backgroundColor”:”#AAAAAA”,”volumeSliderGradient”:”none”,”backgroundGradient”:[0.6,0.3,0,0,0],”tooltipTextColor”:”#ffffff”,”timeColor”:”#FFFFFF”,”volumeSliderColor”:”#000000″,”timeBgHeightRatio”:0.9,”height”:24,”opacity”:1}},”logo”:{“url”:”http://media.azpm.org/master/img/fp_bugs/azpm.org.png”,”top”:”5″,”right”:”5″,”opacity”:0.5,”fullscreenOnly”:false,”displayTime”:0,”fadeSpeed”:0,”linkUrl”:”http://www.azpm.org”},”playlist”:[{"url":"mp4:master/video/2012/3/2/hrhd/030212_Arizona_Week_960x544.mp4","provider":"rtmpvod","autoPlay":false}]}’ /></object>

Personnel Reform: Members get active! “We are DPS”

A striker amendment to HB 2571 was introduced in efforts to reform due process within the various personnel systems within the state, including the Law Enforcement Merit System Council (LEMCS).  The proposed language would remove DPS civilian employees from LEMCS and put them into the newly modified state personnel system.  AHPA and its members are [...]

BODY ARMOR ALERT!

On November 26, 2011, Phoenix Police Department Officer Anthony Daley #9190, was shot and seriously wounded while on-duty. Although Officer Daley was wearing a ballistic vest, a .40 caliber round penetrated the full thickness of the Kevlar material approximately 3/8 of an inch (20mm) above the lower left front panel edge of the vest. In [...]

Personnel Reform Update 2/19/12

HB2571 was heard in the House Employment and Regulatory Affairs committee Thursday night.  During my testimony opposing the bill, I emphasized to the committee members that the current Law Enforcement Merit System Council (LEMSC) is no broken and splitting up the employees of DPS creates issues that are in no way addressed in the bill.  [...]

Order Your Centennial Badge TODAY!

1912 – 2012 ARIZONA CELEBRATES ITS CENTENNIAL On February 14, 1912, Arizona became the 48th and last of the contiguous states to enter the Union of the United States of America.  During 2012, we celebrate our states 100th Anniversary. The Arizona Highway Patrol Association and the Fraternal Order of Police have teamed up together with [...]

Personnel Reform: Law enforcement civilians want same standards as officers

Personnel reform bill impacts police employees & services Law enforcement civilians want same standards as sworn officers Arizona – Per Governor Brewer, the legislature will be hearing a striker amendment to House Bill 2571 on Thursday in efforts to reform due process for state employees.  The members of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) oppose [...]

ACT NOW! Oppose House Bill 2103

Update: HB 2103 is a consolidated anti-union bill that is flying through the legislature. The bill will require that each association member reaffirm in writing every year their desire to have association dues taken out of their paychecks.  This is another attempt to weaken all public employee unions.  No business entity is required to have [...]

Take Advantage of Your PSPRS Cancer Benefit!

Cancer is a disease that has touched many lives, especially those in the law enforcement community.  From radar guns to Arizona’s scorching sun, police officers are faced with hazardous duty and the continued likelihood of encountering cancer.  The Arizona Police Association (APA) and the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) worked hard in helping pass legislation [...]

AHPA endorses Kyrsten Sinema for Congress

Dear Kyrsten, As an elected official who has always had an open door policy for the frontline police officers and civilians that serve the public, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association understands the importance of that longstanding relationship.  When our nation is losing police officers at record rates, law enforcement needs to speak one-on-one with our [...]

AZ Republic: Let us now praise an exceptional man

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL ARTICLE by E.J. Montini, Arizona Republic Columnist (Column for Jan. 13, 2012 Arizona Republic) Maricopa County Deputy Sheriff William Coleman was an exceptional man. But he was not the exception. At his funeral today there will be hundreds of men and women in uniform who would do (and perhaps have [...]

Book: “The Arizona Highway Patrol as I Disremember It” – Paul E. Palmer, Jr.

While providing amusing portrayals of the men and women he worked with, the author relies on slightly exaggerated real life experiences to depict the wonderful, wild and wacky people who made up the Arizona Highway Patrol.  The book provides an unforgettable look at the humorous side of law enforcement through the eyes of one of [...]

AHPA December 2011 Minutes

December 2011 minutes: Click here to download the WORD document: December 2011 AHPA MINUTES Click here to download the PDF document: December 2011 AHPA Minutes

2012 Arizona Legislative Session Begins

Arizona’s Centennial Legislative session began yesterday (1.09.12) with introductions and the Governor’s State of the Union address.  As discussed in our meetings, the Department of Public Safety and all state employees have another year of challenges.  One of our biggest obstacles was mentioned in Governor Janice Brewer‘s reform agenda entitled “The Four Cornerstones of Reform: [...]

Law Enforcement Officer Fatalities Up 13% – Officers Continue to Protect and Serve

2011 is again one of the deadliest years for police across the nation.  According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), law enforcement deaths are up 13% over last 2010 nationwide to date.  However, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) reminds the public that officers remain committed to their duties, and will continue [...]

DPS authors his second book titled “In the Shadow of the Shield”

Chaplain Harms has authored his second book titled “In the Shadow of the Shield”. Chaplain Harms has offered to donate $5 of every book sold with Code 5790 when you order, to the AHPA 501 (C) 3 (charities) organization. The book sells for $19.95 plus $4.95 shipping and handling, arrangements can be made for other [...]

2011 AHPA Raffle Winners! Congratulations!

T’was the day of the December meeting, and all through the room, the board members were busy preparing for the Great Raffle Boom. While Santa drew the tickets, all the Reps held their breath……… The winners of this year’s raffle are as follows: $25,000.00 1st place winner was Retiree Bill Crook #783 and his lovely [...]

18th Annual Highway Patrol Christmas Bear Program Kicks-Off Throughout Arizona Hospitals

Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) members are celebrating its 18th year of bringing Christmas joy to children receiving treatment in various medical centers across the state.  These dedicated Department of Public Safety (DPS) employees will begin delivering bears and holiday cheer December 19th through Christmas Day. The mission of the program is to carry out [...]

Jan. 7th, 2012: “REMEMBRANCE OF OUR FALLEN COMRADE” SGT. MANNY TAPIA

“REMEMBRANCE OF OUR FALLEN COMRADE” SGT. MANNY TAPIA Come and join us on January 7th, 2012 to remember Sgt. Manny Tapia.  We will first start with the Adopt-A-Highway cleanup and will be meeting on Rio Rico Drive and be shuttled onto Interstate 19 for the cleanup.  From there, we will meet at his memorial site [...]

November 2011 Minutes

Click below to download AHPA’s November 2011 minutes: November 2011 AHPA MINUTES WORD DOC November 2011 AHPA MINUTES PDF

October 2011 Minutes

Click below to download the October 2011 meeting minutes: October 2011 AHPA MINUTES WORD DOC October 2011 AHPA MINUTES PDF

Reminder: What to do when involved in a critical incident

CRITICAL INCIDENT REPRESENTATION By Dale F. Norris Law Office of Dale Norris, LLC Since becoming an attorney in 2000, I have represented police officers in approximately 100 critical incidents involving use of force, in custody deaths, serious traffic accidents, and criminal allegations. The decision to make a statement to a criminal investigator is always the [...]

December President’s Message

I hope this message finds all of our members safe.  It has been a busy few months for AHPA.  In September, AHPA attended the National Troopers Coalition (NTC) conference after rejoining the organization back in May.  Mark Haughey and I participated in the discussions, and, frankly, it felt good to know that WE are not [...]

Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation: Jan. 31st – Feb. 3rd

The Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation January 31 – February 3, 2012 Gilbert AZ Seville Golf & Country Club 3 Day Interview and Interrogation Seminar and/or 1 Day Advanced You Will Learn… How to assess the credibility of statements How to structure the interview to maximize the flow of information How to use behavior [...]

Auditor General’s Report on PSPRS

Please find PDF links below to the Arizona Auditor General’s report on PSPRS. Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Auditor General’s Full Report Auditor General Executive Summary Reptort Highlights Auditor General’s Report PSPRS Response Signed Version LINK TO ABC 15 REPORT – 11.17.2011

ABC 15: PUBLIC SAFETY PENSION FUND LOST $1.6B-ONE MAN TO BLAME

ABC 15 in Phoenix completed a two-part series on the public safety retirement system.  Earlier this year, members of the Arizona Police Association (APA) and the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) spoke out about the $1.6 BILLION dollar loss to your retirement fund (Arizona Public Safety Personnel Retirement Fund – PSPRS).  The APA uncovered the [...]

FLAT – 3” WALLET BADGE

The badge can be ordered as an Arizona Department of Public Safety or Arizona Highway Patrol type badge, and it can be ordered with or without the leather wallet (PLEASE SPECIFY IN THE FORM). These are ordered from the same company that makes badges for the department.  (These badges are full breast badge size with [...]

25% off at Cabela’s Nov. 10th & 11th

Cabela’s is saluting our hometown heroes and inviting you to celebrate with us! Our Hometown Hero sale is November 10 & 11 and we are proud to extend to you our employee discount (up to 25% discount, depending on manufacturer and yes, firearms and ammo are included). All Hometown Heroes are invited, so please feel [...]

President’s Message – 10.11.11

As all of you may know by now, Director Halliday formed a Morale Survey Committee to address employee quality of life and morale concerns.  The Committee was chaired and facilitated by Marcus Aurelious and met first on August 4, 2011.  The Committee included six DPS employees of which two were AHPA Representatives selected by the [...]

John E. Reid & Associates, 3 Day Interview and Interrogation Seminar and/or 1 Day Advanced

John E. Reid and Associates, Inc. 3 Day Interview and Interrogation Seminar and/or 1 Day Advanced WHEN: November 15 – 18, 2011 WHERE: Mesa AZ Cosponsor Mesa Police Department REGISTER ONLINE 3 Day Seminar $420 per person 1 Day Advanced $175 per person 4 Day Combined $595 per person For Further Information Contact dplese@reid.com 888-255-1635

Win a Harley with California Casualty

Go to http://go.calcas.com/harley for more information!

28th Annual AHPA Raffle

If you have not got your raffle tickets already, NOW is the time!  Be sure to contact one of the AHPA representatives below.

President’s Message – Update from Adminstrative Meetings

On September 6, Bob Gilbert and I met with Director Halliday to follow up on some items from previous meetings. Work schedules continue to be topic AHPA discusses with the agency.   The AHPA had approached the agency regarding two issues; allowing work groups who work 4 ten-hour shifts during a holiday week to keep those [...]

9/11 Memorial & Challenge Coins

View more information at their website by CLICKING HERE 1.  Think About YOUR Story: Where were you when you heard about the attacks?  What emotions did you feel?  Answers to these questions are YOUR story. 2.  Preserve & Publish YOUR Story: Through MPI’s online Story Builder, you can create a striking 5″x7″ tri-fold that displays [...]

Pension Update – 09.06.11

During the August meeting of the Arizona Police Association, held on the 26th, the APA Board voted to focus efforts on “fixing” two very key issues of SB1609 (pension reform bill) through the legislative process.  While the thought of filing a lawsuit as a result of the pension system changes has been discussed heavily over [...]

Arizona DPS Centennial Badge Approved

In a partnership between the AHPA and FOP Lodge 32, employees and retirees will soon be able to order a recently approved badge commemorating Arizona’s centennial.  Director Halliday has authorized the badge to be worn by sworn employees during 2012. Order forms will be arriving shortly.  Any DPS employee and retiree is eligible to order [...]

President’s Message – DPS Officers back to work on ADOT projects!

I was recently briefed by DPS leadership and confirmed with ADOT that DPS officers will be back to work in construction/work zones starting October 1. As many of you know, this has been a priority for AHPA for several years. ADOT Director John Halikowski has been receptive to the idea since his appointment. Now the [...]

President’s Message – August 2011

Within seconds, sensitive information about individual DPS employees and the agency were released by scrupulous hackers.  I think all of us have reflected on the incident and were reminded how important it is for law enforcement officials to protect their identities.  The agency has been able to answer some questions about the recent hackings and [...]

President’s Update on Adminstration Meeting – 08.11.2011

On Monday, August 8, I met with Director Halliday.  We revisited some of the issues that were raised during our last meeting.  Additionally, I sought and received some positive response on issues that would help DPS support staff. The first of those deals with those who work four 10-hour shifts during their normal work week.  [...]

July 2011 Minutes

Click here to download the WORD document: July 2011 AHPA MINUTES Click here to download the PDF document: July 2011 AHPA MINUTES pdf

Social Media: Information you should know…

Department policies, laws and issues are ever evolving with social media. Below is an assortment of resources you should consider before engaging in social outlets.  Need help? Contact AHPA’s social media guru, Stacey Dillon at stacey@psamedias.com or 480-225-4809. IACP Policy & Background (PDFs for Download): IACP – Concepts and Issues Social Media Paper IACP – [...]

June 2011 Minutes

DOWNLOAD THE PDF HERE: AHPA June 2011 MINUTES DOWNLOAD THE WORD DOCUMENT HERE: AHPA June 2011 MINUTES

May 2011 Minutes

DOWNLOAD THE PDF DOCUMENT HERE: AHPA May 2011 MINUTES DOWNLOAD THE WORD DOCUMENT HERE: AHPA May 2011 MINUTES

April 2011 Minutes

DOWNLOAD THE PDF DOCUMENT HERE: AHPA April 2011 MINUTES DOWNLOAD THE WORD DOCUMENT HERE: AHPA April 2011 MINUTES

Force Science: What can you do to stay safe?

It’s a bloody year for cops so far. At the end of June, total duty-related fatalities in the U.S. are up 8 percent compared to the same time last year, according to preliminary figures from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Officer murders from gunfire are spiking an alarming 38 percent increase. If trends [...]

Change your passwords

In light of recent hackings targeted at Arizona police officers, we encourage all members to change their passwords and be cautious of what you transmit over emails and the internet.  DO NOT email passwords to yourself or other people.  When creating new passwords, think Gibberish!  Your password should be at least six characters and not [...]

AHPA Statement: Safety Compromised After Hackers Release Confidential DPS Info

Officer Safety Compromised After Hackers Release Confidential DPS Information Association wants individuals prosecuted to the highest degree of the law Phoenix, AZ – The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) was made aware that hackers, that identify themselves as LulzSec, released confidential information from the Department of Public Safety’s (DPS).  AHPA is concerned that the files [...]

AHPA:Officer acted appropriately after suspect uses his car as a weapon

The Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) supports the actions of the Department of Public Safety (DPS) Officer after a critical incident this morning (06.23.2011) at his Phoenix residence.  It is the position of AHPA that the officer acted appropriately after a suspect used his vehicle as a weapon and intentionally rammed it multiple times into [...]

Win a Sea Doo from California Casualty!

EV Tribune: Already ‘bare bones’ DPS faces $8M budget crunch

Already ‘bare bones’ DPS faces $8M budget crunch Tuesday, June 21, 2011 3:31 pm By Mike Sakal, Tribune After experiencing a $4 million budget cut last year and a lack of pay raises since 2008, employees of the Arizona Department of Public Safety are going to be at least another $8 million deeper in the [...]

Does caffeine affect shooting performance?

Does caffeine affect shooting performance? Have there been any studies on the reaction time and accuracy of a shooter while under the influence of caffeine or energy drinks? I warn my firearms students before their qualification test day that they might want to stay off of coffee, soft drinks, and energy drinks since these could [...]

Force Science – Police Fatigue Update

Just posted on the Force Science website, you’ll find a new article by a fitness expert detailing practical steps you can take to overcome dangerous fatigue on- and off-duty. Click here or visit: www.forcescience.org/fatiguepaper.pdf. “Combating Police Officer Fatigue” grew out of training provided to the Greeley (CO) PD by author Reece Towle, a certified strength [...]

Citizens Academy with a twist puts civilians in the OIS hot seat

Citizens Academy with a twist puts civilians in the OIS hot seat The dominant goal of citizen police academy programs is to get civilians to walk a mile in an officer’s boots. Thanks to the creativity of Force Science Analyst Steven Goard, those who attend the academy conducted by the Livermore (CA) PD walk an [...]

President’s Message – 06.07.2011

Over the past 14 months, I have had regular monthly meetings with Director Halliday.   These meetings have been typically one-on-one.  On a few of the most recent meetings, Bob Gilbert accompanied me.  The purpose of these meetings has been to not only maintaining a working relationship between AHPA and management, but also to discuss issues [...]

AZ Capitol Times: Public safety employees eying possible pension reform lawsuits

Public safety employees eying possible pension reform lawsuits by Jeremy Duda Published: June 6th, 2011 Unions representing police officers, firefighters and other public safety employees worked with lawmakers for months on the Legislature’s marquee pension reform bill, but that may not stop them from suing the state over it anyway. Several public safety unions are [...]

2012 Legislative Agenda

With June now upon us, it is time to start working on our legislative agenda for 2012.  In an effort to work collectively with our partners in the APA, I am asking anyone with legislative ideas to submit them to the Board of Director so that they can be discussed and decided on over the [...]

Personnel Reform – History & Facts

An Arizona State personnel reform measure has been discussed over the last few months by politicians and our Governor, however, no action has been taken and little information has been available to the public. You will probably remember the language used when Governor Brewer introduced her “Four Cornerstones of Reform” policy agenda that addressed this [...]

Health Care Insurance Carve Out Plan – FAQ’s and More!

Issue Over the last several years, two major issues relative to healthcare benefits have continued to plague DPS employees.  The first is the ever-increasing costs, especially to retirees.  The second is the exclusion of DPS employees from participation in DOA controlled health coverage decisions that directly affect us. Solution In looking for viable solutions to [...]

The Reid Technique of Interviewing and Interrogation – Upcoming Training

Interviewing & Interrogation – For more information CLICK HERE July 6 – 8, 2011  Tucson AZ   Four Points Tucson University Plaza ******** Aug. 23rd – 4 Day Aug. 26th – 1 Day Gilbert, AZ Seville Golf Club More than 300,000 professionals in the law enforcement and security fields have attended this three day program since [...]

2011 DPS Fallen Officer Memorial – May 2nd

Force Science Exhaustion Study – Final Findings

Final findings from Force Science exhaustion study The Force Science research team that explored officer exhaustion through a unique set of experiments –with these significant conclusions: • Less than 60 seconds of all-out exertion, such as an officer might expend in trying to control a combative offender, can deplete the average LEO’s physical reserves and [...]

Law Enforcement Officers Now Have Whistleblower Protection

Today’s signing of SB 1235 into law by Governor Jan Brewer signaled a new day for law enforcement officers throughout the state.  A late amendment to this bill provides that a law enforcement officer from municipalities can be protected under the state’s whistleblower law from disciplinary action by their department or city personnel director should [...]

Common Questions Reference SB 1609:Current and Retired Members of PSPRS

PSPRS PSPRS changes start on page 34 of the bill and continue through page 58. Retirement Calculation For current employees – The best 3 year calculation remains in effect. Employee Work Week Employee Work Week remains the same (40 hours).  If tough economic times remain causing furloughs, an officer can remain in the system as [...]

Pension update: SB 1609 on to Senate (04.14.2011)

The Arizona House of Representatives voted to pass SB 1609 (your pension bill) to the Senate.  WATCH THE VIDEO HERE.  Below is the ammended bill (that the AHPA and Arizona Police Association (APA) had input into) that the Senate should be voting on Monday (04.18.2011).  AHPA will keep you updated on any information we receive.  Read Jimmy’s comments to the Capitol [...]

Pension and Budget Update 4/11/2011

President’s Message – AHPA President Jimmy Chavez Pension Update – SB 1609 On Friday, April 8, I was invited to another meeting in the Governor’s office for further discussion on Senate Bill 1609.  A select group of representatives were in attendance, including House and Senate Staff.  The purpose of the meeting was to hear a [...]

SB1609 UPDATE – April 4, 2011

SB1609 passed out of House Rules Committee with a 4-2 vote (Reps. Weiers and Campbell voting “no”).  It will now continue through the process, going to Caucus then to Committee of the Whole.  At this point, the public safety proposal has not been accepted.  Kelsey Lundy and I will be meeting with members throughout the [...]

AHPA Letter to Governor: Veto Budget Bill

This letter was sent on behalf of AHPA members today related to the budget bill that was introduced this morning, April 1st.  ————————————————————————————————- April 1, 2011 Honorable Janice K. Brewer Governor of Arizona 1700 W. Washington Phoenix, Arizona 85007 Re:  Fiscal Year 2012 Budget Proposal Governor Brewer, On behalf of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association, [...]

President’s Message – Pension Update 04.01.11

This week (March 28-31), Kelsey Lundy and I have been meeting with legislative members about SB1609.  Many of those members have expressed concerns with the process in which SB1609 has been put together and the provisions in the current version.  They have also been interested and receptive to the proposal offered by the public safety [...]

MARCH 2011 MEETING MINUTES

Click below to view March 2011 meeting minutes: AHPA MARCH 2011 MEETING MINUTES – WORD DOCUMENT AHPA MARCH 2011 MEETING MINUTES – PDF DOCUMENT

Respond4AZPolice.com

After the pension bill passed the committees last week, Arizona Police Association (APA) members groups agreed that the solutions we (police and fire organizations) proposed to sustain the retirement fund fell on deaf ears. We have taken every step to be proactive in sustaining PSPRS, and be a part of a solution.  APA affiliates voted [...]

SB1609 UPDATE AND INFORMATION 3/25/2011

On Tuesday, March 22, SB1609 passed out of the House Committee on Employment and Regulatory Affairs by a 6 to 3 vote.  The 41-page Robson amendment (authored by Sen. Yarbrough and Rep. Adams) was attached to the bill, which essentially melds HB2726 (Adams’ pension bill) to this one. As mentioned earlier, this bill is problematic [...]

Respond4AZPolice PRESS CONFERENCE

PRESS CONFERENCE, March 23rd ARIZONA COPS AND FIRE FIGHTERS SPEAK OUT: SB 1609 HURTS PUBLIC SAFETY PHOENIX – First responders from public safety and law enforcement associations across Arizona are voicing their aversion to SB 1609, a pension bill moving through the Legislature. The bill would force pay cuts upon police officers and fire fighters. [...]

SB1609 IN HOUSE COMMITTEE 3/22 – ACTION NEEDED!

At a “stakeholders” meeting this after noon (3/21) in the Senate, details of SB1609 were shared.  All of us in attendance learned that an agreement had been worked out between the House and Senate and as a result, the Senate bill would be the bill that continues to move through the legislative process.  The bill [...]

SB1609 Update (Senate Pension Reform Bill)

SB1609 will be heard in the House Committee on Employment and Regulatory Affairs (ERA) on Tuesday (3/22) afternoon.  To this point, none of the options provided by the law enforcement groups have been accepted.  This bill continues to contain language that is problematic for employees and retirees of PSPRS. Contact the following ERA committee members [...]

February 2011 Meeting Minutes

Download the word document link below for the February 2011 minutes: AHPA February 2011 MINUTES

Legislative Report – Week of March 7th

DOWNLOAD THE WORD DOCUMENT HERE – LEGISLATIVE REPORT MARCH 7TH Weekly Report for the Week of March 7, 2011 Date: March 14, 2011 Weekly Overview For a second consecutive week, committee activity in both legislative chambers was rather light as bills continue to make their way over to their opposite chamber (House bills to the [...]

AHPA’s Spring Break Advisory to the Public

Arizona Department of Public Safety and the Arizona Highway Patrol Association urge Spring Breakers to use caution if traveling to Mexico Cartel-related Violence of Special Concern for Travelers to Mexico  As many college students gear up for the spring break holiday in the coming weeks, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Arizona Highway [...]

Why employee pensions aren’t bankrupting states

Source: McClatchy Newspaper A close look at state and local pension plans across the nation, and a comparison of them to those in the private sector, reveals a more complicated story. However, the short answer is that there’s simply no evidence that state pensions are the current burden to public finances that their critics claim. [...]

Police Use of Force: The Impact of Less-Lethal Weapons and Tactics

A new study suggests that less-lethal weapons decrease rates of officer and offender injuries. In the mid-19th century, police officers in New York and Boston relied on less-lethal weapons, mostly wooden clubs. By the late 1800s, police departments began issuing firearms to officers in response to better-armed criminals. Today, many law enforcement agencies are again [...]

Call to Action – MRSA Bill

The Arizona Police Association (APA) and AHPA helped craft and support a bill, extending the time to report MRSA. HB 2476 helps officers who contract the disease to get treatment and makes it a compensated industrial injury. The bill will be heard tomorrow (March 15th) afternoon at 2 pm in the senate (Banking and Insurance Committee). [...]

Legislative Report – March 4th, 2011

DOWNLOAD THE WORD DOCUMENT HERE: Weekly Report Feb 21 and Feb 28 To: Jimmy Chavez From: KELSEY LUNDY Subject: Weekly Report for the Weeks of February 21 and 28, 2011 Date: March 4, 2011 Overview of the Week at the Capitol Week of February 21 Since last week only two additional bills have been brought [...]

Pension Reform Update – March 3, 2011

Today  (March 3), SB1609 passed out of the Senate with a 21-5 vote.  All Republicans in the Senate voted for the bill.  The bill now moves to the House and we will continue to seek a resolution to the issues within this bill as well as HB2726.  Both pension bills, if passed as written, will [...]

Urgent Pension Action for Members, Friends & Family – SB1609

URGENT! I need everyone to e-mail all senators ASAP and ask them to voice their opposition to SB 1609.  This is Sen. Yarborough’s pension bill.   Here is proposed e-mail language.  Thank you for your assistance. Brian L. Livingston Executive Director,  Arizona Police Association 1102 West Adams Street Phoenix, Arizona 85007 Office Phone:  (602) 249-4358 Cell [...]

Anti-fatigue measures could cut cop deaths 15%, researcher claims

A leading sleep researcher argues that officer deaths from vehicle accidents and violent attacks could be cut by at least 15%–”a pretty darned conservative estimate”–if the problem of police fatigue was seriously addressed. As it is, he claims, a toxic mix of poor personal habits and arbitrary agency policies is creating a “large pool of [...]

Pension Update – SB 1609 – Heard 02.23.2011

SB 1609 is another bill attempting to change our pension systems (PSPRS, EORP & CORP).  The bill passed out of the Senate Finance Committee with a 3-1 vote and three (3) amendments were adopted. CLICK HERE TO READ THE BILL AND ITS STATUS. On February 23rd, AHPA and APA spoke against SB 1609, as it was [...]

Reid Technique of Interviewing & Interrogation – April 25th – 28th, 2011

THE REID TECHNIQUE OF INTERVIEWING & INTERROGATION April 25 – 28, 2011 Mesa AZ – Co-sponsored by Mesa Police Department 3 Day Interview and Interrogation Seminar and/or 1 Day Advanced Seminar Fees: Cosponsored programs offer you the lowest pricing for 2011 3 Day Program      $420 per person 1 Day Advanced    $175 per person  4 Day Combined    $595 per person For [...]

AZ Republic Article – State push for police rights under way

State push for police rights is under way by Lisa Halverstadt – Feb. 20, 2011 08:12 PM The Arizona Republic Arizona police officers are seeking more protections from internal investigations prompted by residents and fellow officers. Most Valley police unions now have contracts that spell out procedures for investigations of officers accused of misconduct. The [...]

Legislative Weekly Report 02/14/2011

Legislative Weekly Report for the Week of February 14, 2011 February 17, 2011 Overview of the Week at the Capitol This week wraps up the last week to hear bills in the house of origin (meaning House bills in the House and Senate bills in the Senate) and as such it was a frenzied week [...]

Pension Update – 02.17.2011

Yesterday (02.17.2011), the House Employment and Regulatory Affairs Committee voted 5-4 for HB 2726, a bill attempting to reform our pensions systems.  CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE HEARING.  The general consensus from the remarks from committee members during and after the vote took place were that there was still a lot of [...]

Pension Reform Update – 2/16/11

Thanks to the action of you, the members, the House Employment & Regulatory Affairs Committee pulled HB2726 from yesterday’s agenda.  The fight is not over.  The bill will still be heard tomorrow, Thursday February 17, at 2:00 in a special meeting of the same committee.  If you have not done so, please contact the committee [...]

Legislative Weekly Report – 02/07/2011

Legislative  Weekly Report for the Week of February 7, 2011 Date:                     February 14, 2011 Overview On day 32 of session there have been a total of 1334 bills dropped and 5 passed.  Senator Kyl announced this week that he will not be seeking another term saying that there is more to life than being [...]

Member Action – Pension Bill 02.15.10

Dear AHPA Members, Arizona House Representative Kirk Adams has released his bill to “fix” several Arizona pension systems, including CORP and PSPRS. Read HB 2726 (Note: 58 pages long, a summary is below). HB 2726 will be heard in the House Employment & Regulatory Affairs Committee in House Hearing Room 3, located at 1700 W. [...]

January 2011 Minutes

Arizona Highway Patrol Association Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting January 19, 2011 CLICK BELOW TO DOWNLOAD THE MINUTES IN A PDF FORMAT: AHPA JAN. 2011 MINUTES

AHPA Legislative Report – Weeks of January 24 and 31, 2011

  MEMORANDUM   To:                          Jimmy Chavez From:                    Kelsey Lundy – R & R Partners Subject:               Weekly Report for the Weeks of January 24 and 31, 2011 Date:                     February 7, 2011 Overview Week of January 24, 2011: The Governor took a bold move this week and sent her request for a waiver [...]

SB 1584 – Health Care Carve Out Bill

Thanks to the hard work of the Arizona Highway Patrol Association, Senator John Nelson has sponsored AHPA’s health insurance carve out bill.  The bill number is SB1584.  To follow the bill, go to www.azleg.gov. AHPA’s membership, over the years, has supported the idea of a health insurance bill, like SB1584.  With membership direction and feedback from [...]

DPS Budget Presentation – 12.15.2010

John Arnold, from the Governor’s Office of Strategic Budgeting and Planning, came to our December meeting and presented to the membership information on DPS’ budget. You can find his presentation below. You must have Powerpoint in order to view this document. DPS Budget Presentation 12-15-10

Top Ten Ways Not to Start a Report

1. Hear ye, hear ye: 2. It was the best of times, it was the worst of times 3. What it do players? Here’s the deal: 4. From the desk of the world’s greatest cop 5. Four score and seven years ago… 6. Will whoever took my red stapler please return it ASAP. 7. Dear [...]

Police Officer Line of Duty Deaths Up 500% in Arizona; 40% Nationwide

Police Officer Line of Duty Deaths Up 500% in Arizona; 40% Nationwide Statistics show increased dangers in law enforcement from 2009 to 2010   2010 became one of the deadliest years in law enforcement, where the United States lost 160 police officers. According to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), officer line of duty [...]

Governor’s Budget Proposal 01.14.11

Below is a link to Governor Brewer’s budget plan for this upcoming fiscal year.  You must have Powerpoint to view this document.  If you have any questions, please feel free to contact a board member. Governor’s Budget Plan Presentation 01-14-11

December 2010 Meeting Minutes

Secretary’s Note:  This morning Border Patrol Agent Brian A. Terry was killed in the line of duty near Rio Rico. Arizona Highway Patrol Association Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting December 15, 2010 The December 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez [...]

17th Annual Highway Patrol Christmas Bear Program Kicks-Off Throughout Arizona Hospitals

Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) members are celebrating its 17th year of bringing Christmas joy to children receiving treatment in various medical centers across the state.  These dedicated Department of Public Safety (DPS) employees will begin delivering bears and holiday cheer December 16th through Christmas Day. The mission of the program is to carry out [...]

Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett Budget Presentation

Arizona Secretary of State, Ken Bennett, attending AHPA’s annual meeting in Prescott last month and presented a clear way to understand the state’s budget.  The “Tissue Box” demonstration (as it has been coined) was found to be particularly helpful to those that were at the meeting.  Mr. Bennett has allowed it to be shared with [...]

November 2010 Meeting Minutes

The November 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference Center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona.  President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: President                        Jimmy Chavez Executive [...]

7th Annual Run To Remember

7th Annual “Run to Remember” – Honoring our Fallen Law Enforcement Heroes 1 mile fun Run/Walk & 5K Fun Run/Walk Tumbleweed Park, Chandler, Arizona Sunday, January 9, 2011 7:30 Registration, 8:30 Start Time All proceeds of the run/walk will go to the families of officers that will be honored at National Police Week in May [...]

AHPA Helps Teens & Parents Understand Distracted Driving

Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of teens in America, and the most frequent causes are distracted and reckless driving. To put the brakes on the high number of young casualties, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association (AHPA) and Impact Teen Drivers, a public awareness and education program focusing on distracted and reckless driving, [...]

September 2010 Meeting Minutes

The August 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 1000 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference Center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona.  Prior to the meeting, the Working Groups had met from 0900- 1000 hours. President Chavez began the meeting with [...]

August 2010 Meeting Minutes

The August 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference Center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona.  President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: President                        Jimmy Chavez Executive [...]

Wish comes true for Chino Valley teenager

By Linda Stein The Daily Courier Trains have enthralled Evan Johnson since he was a small boy. On Saturday the 14-year-old Chino Valley teenager suffering from a life-threatening heart condition will fly with his family to Alaska to ride a train and see a glacier courtesy of the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Arizona. “I never thought [...]

Passing of former AHPA lobbyist Ed Wren

Former AHPA lobbyist, Edward James Wren, passed away, surrounded by those he loved, on July 31, 2010. He was 68. Born in Syracuse, NY, to Edwin Francis and Helen Beatrice Wren, Ed grew up in NY and Florida. He graduated from Florida State University in 1964. After graduation his work would take him from Florida [...]

July 2010 Meeting Minutes

The July 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 0900 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Phoenix Mountain Preserve & Conference Center located at 1431 East Dunlap, Phoenix, Arizona.  President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: President                        Jimmy Chavez Executive [...]

Please keep in your thoughts our Fallen Chandler Officers; Ledesma #600 EOW: 7/28/10

Detective Carlos Ledesma, #600 End of Watch: 7/28/10 Please pray for the two Chandler Detectives that underwent surgery and are listed at this time in stable condition. Message from our brothers and sisters from Chandler Law Enforcement Association (CLEA): In this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of our fellow officers [...]

June 2010 Meeting Minutes

The June 2010 Board of Directors & AHPA Charities Meeting was called to order at 1000 hours by President Jimmy Chavez at the Prescott resort located in Prescott, Arizona. President Chavez began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: President -                     Jimmy Chavez Executive Officer               Pat Eagan District One                    Dave [...]

Legal Defense Fund (LDF) Expert on Discovery Channel

Force Science, a resource used by the Legal Defense Fund that covers you, was featured on the Discovery Channel. Dr. Bill Lewenski and his scien- tists reenacted common scenarios officers are faced involving weapons. The reenactment shows an assailant on the ground firing a gun from underneath their body. Force Science uses the study to [...]

Memorial Day Weekend Travelers – Be Safe

As many travelers gear up for Memorial Day weekend, the Arizona Highway Patrol Association reminds the public to be careful.  Americans have a choice when traveling, and the AHPA urges them to protect themselves if they do choose to travel anywhere in or outside of the United States.  Here are some security tips for Arizonans [...]

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